senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(512) 321-3042

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also called AMD or age-related macular degeneration, occurs when the macula — the central portion of the retina — begins to wear down, causing central vision loss.

People who suffer from AMD tend to lose their “straight ahead” vision, making it difficult to read, drive, and recognize faces. 

Total vision loss is unlikely, as there's typically enough peripheral vision to allow for other activities of daily life. 

Man with macular degeneration


Types of Macular Degeneration:

macular degeneration types

  • Dry AMD: small deposits called drusen damage retinal nerve cells and reduce vision
  • Wet AMD: new blood vessels form that leak and release fluid that harms the macula. This is a more severe form of AMD that can more quickly cause vision loss.

Don’t Let AMD Rob You of Your Sight

An estimated 196 million people are living with macular degeneration worldwide. Although those affected by it rarely lose all their vision, the vast majority suffer from some degree of vision loss. 

While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are certain treatments that can slow its progression — and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

If you think you're at risk or are experiencing symptoms, contact Bastrop Family Eye Care today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Risk Factors for AMD

  • Aged 50+

    The onset of AMD usually happens over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.

  • Lifestyle factors

    Smoking or eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.

  • Obesity

    Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.

  • Family History

    If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.


How to Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration

While there isn’t yet a cure for AMD or an effective way of reversing vision loss that has already occurred, you can take certain steps and adopt new habits to slow the progression of the disease.

Furthermore, certain treatments can slow its progression and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

Talk to us about how you can slow the progression of the disease and avoid vision loss by contacting Bastrop Family Eye Care today. 

Photograph


Macular Degeneration FAQs

What are the first signs of AMD?

You may have AMD and not know it. Typically, symptoms may not develop until the advanced stage of the eye disease.

First signs of AMD may include: 

  • Blurred vision
  • Blind spots or dark spots
  • Straight lines appearing distorted or wavy
  • Faded colors 

 For early detection and better outcomes, it's important to undergo regular eye exams at our eye clinic, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. 

How common is macular degeneration?

Statistics indicate that 8.7% of the world population has macular degeneration. The rate of AMD is expected to increase from 196 million in 2022 to 288 million by 2040.

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

Currently, the most common treatment for wet AMD is the injection of medications called anti-VEGF agents. High levels of VEGF in the eye increase the formation of abnormal blood vessels that cause much of the damage in wet AMD.

Patient Reviews
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- Jun. 25, 2025
Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable
- Jun. 17, 2025
Great service and attention! Looking forward to returning when next needing eye care.
- Jun. 16, 2025
First time exam,great experience picking out glasses.
- Jun. 16, 2025
Everyone was so nice and professional. The doctor was very thorough. I love my glasses.
- Jun. 12, 2025
Very friendly and helpful staff. Low pressure. Everything was well explained before a procedure wa... s done. My new glasses are great.
- Jun. 10, 2025
I'd been to this place with my in-laws but had my first experience as a patient there last week. I ... was very impressed with their friendliness, playfulness and professionalism. Dr. Sunny explained that I could wear contacts again and some options for my daughter...that we couldn't necessarily afford but, nice to get the information. The staff seemed a little irked about us getting rushed back when there were 3 of us all together - but it all worked out. Pleased with all the staff that helped and the care they provided. Thanks Bastrop Family Eye Care - hoping my daughter can get the contacts to work soon....I have faith she can do it!! If you're looking for a new eye doctor - I recommend them.
- Jun. 06, 2025
GREAT DR. AND GREAT SUPPORT
- May. 25, 2025
I've been going there since 2010. I see no reason to change.
- May. 23, 2025
Very professional, timely and friendly. Dr Sunny is extremely thorough and professional.
- May. 19, 2025
A truĺÿ wonderful experience. I wouldn't go anywhere else for vision needs.
- May. 07, 2025
Dr. Jones is a true blessing! I highly recommend her to everyone. She was so caring and informative ... about my eye care needs. She took her time explaining my scans and was very professional. I am SO thankful to have found her!! Everyone I encountered (staff) from the time I walked in was great!!
- May. 02, 2025
Dr. Candice is wonderful
- Apr. 30, 2025
Fast, efficient, Informative and caring!
- Apr. 16, 2025
Excellent service and knowledgeable staff
- Apr. 09, 2025
Very professional and kind staff! Highly recommend
- Apr. 01, 2025
All of the employees and Dr. Jones truly care about the person and not just a "patient." All of the ... staff make sure you are very well taken care of. The concern truly is shown.
- Mar. 28, 2025
I had the best experience here! Top notch customer service. Please give them a try.
- Mar. 28, 2025
Great experience and quick turnaround for glasses. Very nice people.
- Mar. 26, 2025
Love this establishment- friendly, easy to get an appointment in my schedule, prompt in seeing you a... t appointment time, and takes my insurance!
- Mar. 24, 2025
Dr Jones is a very respected, professional eye care professional I will encourage anyone to seek he... r. Dr Jones is caring, professional myself and my family like her alot. I will recommend anyone to seek her. Thanks Dr Jones

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Bastrop

Our optometry practice in Bastrop

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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

Don’t let AMD stop you from doing the things you love.

(512) 321-3042