Macular Degeneration Specialist

Mile High Retina: Mark E. Patron, MD

Board Certified Ophthalmologist & Retina Surgeon located in Denver, Colorado

Macular degeneration has devastating effects on the lives of the many people who lose their sight because of this condition every year. At Mile High Retina located in Denver, Colorado, board-certified ophthalmologist and retina surgeon Mark E. Patron, MD, is an expert in diagnosing macular degeneration and provides a range of effective treatment options to help you keep your sight as long as possible. If you are experiencing changes in your vision, call Mile High Retina today.

Macular Degeneration Q & A

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is the most common cause of serious visual impairment and vision loss in people over 50. Because macular degeneration most often occurs as a result of aging, this condition is also called age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The macula is the section of the retina at the back of your eye that is responsible for your fine, central vision. Macular degeneration causes changes in the macula and thus can affect your ability to see in the center of your visual field.

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration occurs gradually over time, so you may not notice the deterioration in your sight at first. When you do start to notice symptoms, you might experience problems with your vision such as:

  • Not being able to see clearly
  • Distorted shapes
  • Straight lines appear to be wavy or crooked
  • Color vision fades
  • A dark spot in the center of your vision

If you see any of these symptoms, make an appointment to see Dr. Patron. He can perform diagnostic tests to confirm whether you have macular degeneration or if there is another cause for your symptoms. 

How is macular degeneration treated?

Treatment for macular degeneration depends on whether you have the dry form (non-exudative) or the wet form (exudative).

Dry macular degeneration is the most common form of AMD, and unfortunately, there is no cure. However, research indicates that there is a link between nutrient intake and how quickly dry macular degeneration progresses. Dr. Patron may recommend specially formulated vitamin supplements to help slow macular degeneration.

Wet macular degeneration causes a much more rapid change or loss of vision, but prompt treatment can reduce the extent of vision loss. 

The most common treatment for wet AMD is an injection of anti-VEGF drugs, including Lucentis®, Eylea®, and Avastin®, into the eye. These medications work within your eye to stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels and stop leakage associated with wet AMD.

These treatments cannot cure macular degeneration, but they may help you retain your sight for as long as possible. If you are experiencing any vision loss or disturbances in your vision, call Mile High Retina today.

Denver Fax: 303-691-8116
Email Address: info@milehighretina.com