senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(352) 512-0560

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 Eye Care Center of Ocala 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 Eye Care Center of Ocala 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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- Dec. 02, 2024
I highly recommend this facility. I was very impressed with how efficient this office was. It was a ... breeze to go from the check in, eye exam and onto picking out the frames. Dr. Castello was great with my daughter and helped her feel at ease. I will definitely be back for an eye exam for myself.
- Oct. 30, 2024
very professional and informative
- Oct. 09, 2024
I received the wrong prescription contacts from a vendor and scheduled an exam here to see what was ... going on when it was so blurry. The receptionist and tech helped me realize their mistake quickly and were extremely helpful! When it’s time for another eye exam, I’ll definitely be returning here.
- Jul. 31, 2024
First time visit having neglected my annual exam for lots of years. The office was clean and organiz... ed. Very professional staff and Christine was very patient with my ultra sensitivity to putting things in my eyes. OK, maybe a phobia. Scheduled appointment on-line and arrived a bit early for the new patient paperwork which was all electronic tablet. Nice. The only glitch I noticed was their website which would not allow uploading a scan of my insurance card. Dr C was easy to understand and exuded confidence. I trust this office to take care of my baby blues.
- Jul. 29, 2024
Very quick, efficient, and relatively affordable
- Jul. 09, 2024
I’m a new patient. Professional, clean and no wait time. Super friendly staff. Highly recommend.
- May. 18, 2024
I have been a patient for many years. Dr.Shaw has helped me retain what vision I have left. He is t... horoughly in depth and knowledgeable in his treatment and diagnosis of my condition. He and his staff in the back where eye exams take place are very kind and understanding Kudos to Samantha and Regina job well done and the young man who helped me in front office (Darius?)
- May. 16, 2024
After shopping around they're the only one who took time to explain to me what my insurance was abou... t I got my glasses👍
- May. 15, 2024
Top notch service and employee retention knowledge! Willing too go a little extra to keep customers ... happy!
- May. 14, 2024
There are some lovely people working here. All very courteous and professional. The place looked cle... an and orderly. They also have public Wi-Fi for guests.
- May. 03, 2024
Made an appointment for eye exam. First time there. The staff was helpful friendly and help Pick out... my frames. Awesome experience. I will come back
- Mar. 09, 2024
Very professional and friendly staff that makes you feel like can trust them with the health of your... eyes. Choosing a doctor to take care of your vision requires an extra layer of trust since you'll be putting the health of one the most important parts of your body in their hands. They explain every exam and are detail oriented with the procedures.
- Mar. 07, 2024
I am so thankful I found this office. I had to have cataract surgery and Dr Castello was so reassuri... ng and put me at great ease for my up coming surgery. The front staff is so friendly as well as their technicians. I would give them 10 stars if I could. I look forward after my second eye is done to get a new prescription for glasses.
- Mar. 05, 2024
Overall, it was very pleasant. For someone who has struggled with my eyesight almost since birth, g... oing to the eye Dr is always a very nerve-wracking experience. The treatment began as soon as I virtually booked my appointment. Jess was amazing at contacting me prior to my appointment to gather additional information. As well as suggesting I apply for vision insurance ( they do not get paid to promote this). I applied, and I saved upward of 400 dollars during my visit. From the welcome desk to the tech, to the Dr and the sales representatives on the floor, I felt like everyone had a collective passion and urge to help in any way possible. There was a bit of confusion navigating the permissions of my newly acquired vision insurance, but Courtney went above and beyond. She ensured that I left not only a happy customer but also in great spirits regarding the entire visit. I will absolutely be continuing my care here and will recommend that if you're in Ocala, this is the place to go!
- Feb. 13, 2024
I went there for an Eye exam yesterday. It was the most thorough and enjoyable eye exam I have ever ... had. The staff is friendly and caring. I really feel like they care.
- Nov. 13, 2023
I can’t say enough amazing things about this office! I had my appointment today and my toddler had... to come with me - they were so patient and understanding with us. All the staff are AMAZING! Dr. Michelle Cevallos is FANTASTIC!
- Nov. 10, 2023
Nice place good service
- Sep. 21, 2023
Best and most thorough eye exam I've ever had! Been wearing glasses or contacts for close to 40 yea... rs and never before have I experienced the level of professionalism and over the top patient care as I have at Eye Care Center of Ocala. From the moment I called and spoke with Sitara to schedule an exam, Bailey the wonderful receptionist to the pre-exam with Herb and the exam itself with Dr Cevallos to having Penny assist me with picking out frames, everything and I do mean everything, was above and beyond what I've experienced in the past. The office is gorgeous, state of the art, the selection of frames extensive and everyone working there very nice and patient oriented. Cannot express just how satisfied and impressed I am with every aspect of Eye Care Center of Ocala. Will definitely be recommending them to anyone who needs eye care!
- Sep. 19, 2023
A wonderful center full of caring smart people! I'm glad we found them! I SEE their efforts and am ... thankful!
- Jul. 21, 2023
Truly a remarkable experience! After moving, we were uncertain we would be able to find an eye care ... center that could possibly meet our expectations set from our previous office. We have been fully delighted. Every staff member we have had the privilege of meeting has been intentional and kind. The doctor is extremely attentive and thorough. I must say, they have gone above and beyond in each interaction! I sincerely recommend them highly!

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Ocala

Our optometry practice in Ocala

Photograph of Lauren  Wasikowski
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • Blue Cross

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(352) 512-0560