Monthly Archives: February

AMD Awareness: Expert Facts & Guidance to Manage this Condition

February marks National Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this prevalent eye condition. At Family Vision Development Center, we believe it’s crucial to inform our patients about AMD, its risk factors, symptoms, and management strategies. Therefore, we would like to share some important information about the basics of AMD and explore how we can assist in managing this condition effectively.

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

AMD is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Over time, AMD can lead to blurred or distorted vision, making it challenging to perform tasks such as reading or driving.

Types of AMD

• Dry AMD: This form of AMD is more common, characterized by the gradual breakdown of light-sensitive cells in the macula.
• Wet AMD: Less common but more severe, wet AMD involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula, which can leak blood and fluid, leading to rapid vision loss if left untreated.

Risk Factors for AMD

• Age: AMD primarily affects individuals over the age of 50.
• Family History: Genetics play a significant role in predisposing individuals to AMD.
• Smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk and progression of AMD.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese is associated with a higher likelihood of developing AMD.
• High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can contribute to the progression of AMD.
• Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light may increase the risk of AMD.

Symptoms of AMD

• Gradual loss of central vision
• Distorted or blurry vision
• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
• Increased sensitivity to glare
• Decreased color perception

How Family Vision Development Center Can Help Manage AMD

1. Comprehensive Eye Examinations: Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and monitoring of AMD. During your exam, we will perform various tests, including visual acuity tests, dilated eye exams, and imaging tests, to assess the health of your retina.

2. Personalized Treatment Plans: Depending on the type and severity of AMD, we may recommend specific treatments, such as:

• Nutritional supplements containing vitamins and minerals beneficial for eye health.
• Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels in wet AMD.
• Low vision aids and devices to help improve visual function and quality of life for individuals with advanced AMD.

Treatment options for both wet and dry AMD are continually changing and improving, such as evolving drug therapies, gene therapy for wet AMD, advancing anti-VEGF treatments, and even stem cell transplants. We stay informed of developments as they become available and work with patients to determine the best course of treatment.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Another way we help our patients is by providing guidance on lifestyle changes that may help manage AMD and reduce its progression. This may include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, and managing underlying health conditions like hypertension.

4. Patient Education and Support: Of course, we will always serve as a valuable resource for educating our patients about AMD, answering questions, and providing support throughout their treatment journey. We do our best to offer advice on adapting daily activities to accommodate changes in vision, and refer patients to support groups or other services if needed.

As we observe National Age-Related Macular Degeneration Month, it’s essential to prioritize eye health and raise awareness about AMD. By understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and management options for AMD, our patients can take proactive steps to preserve their vision. Your eye doctor plays a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and supporting individuals affected by AMD, so don’t hesitate to contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule your regular eye exam and seek guidance for optimal eye care.

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

5 Legitimate Reasons to NOT Skip Out on Annual Vision Exams

Regular comprehensive vision exams may not be on the top of most people’s list of important things to do. But they absolutely should be! In fact, getting your vision examined every year is one of the most important things you can do to protect your overall health and well-being.  While we feel that there are dozens of reasons why vision exams are essential, here are a few of the top reasons to visit us for an annual appointment.

Prescriptions Can Change

Vision can change over time, so annual vision exams help ensure that your prescription for glasses or contact lenses is up-to-date. Wearing an outdated prescription not only leads to discomfort, but can also contribute to eye strain, headaches, and can even worsen existing vision problems. Keeping your prescription current ensures that you are seeing the world clearly and comfortably.

Vision Exams Help Track Vision Changes Quickly

Comprehensive vision exams check your vision, the inner and outer parts of your eyes, and measure how well your eyes work together as a team. Even if the exam determines that no corrective measures are needed, the results serve as a baseline for future exams. Consistent vision exams can help us quickly recognize signs of a developing vision disorder, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, and can allow for early and more effective treatment. In essence, regular vision exams act as proactive checkpoints, enabling us to address vision changes promptly and help you to maintain optimal eye health.

Vision Exams can Reveal Signs of Dangerous Health Problems

Believe it or not, your eyes can provide valuable insights into your overall health. During an eye exam, we may identify signs of systemic health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Changes in the blood vessels, retina, or even the appearance of yellowish deposits in the eye can serve as early indicators of these conditions. Detecting and addressing these issues promptly can have a positive impact on your overall health.

Get Important Vision Questions Answered on a Regular Basis

At Family Vision Development Center, we are always happy to share our wealth of knowledge. We stay informed of the latest eyecare topics, the most current vision therapy treatment options and the latest in eyeglass and contact lens technology. It is important to have a true partner in maintaining your eye health, and we are here to help ensure that you have a reliable source of information when the need arises.

Preserve your Vision on a Long-Term Basis for Overall Quality of Life

Healthy vision is an essential component of daily life. When your vision suffers, everyday tasks can become more difficult.  In essence, clear vision is fundamental to our daily activities, from work to leisure. By addressing any vision issues promptly, you can maintain an optimal quality of life. Whether it’s reading a book, driving a car, or enjoying your favorite hobbies, proper vision is important. Yearly vision exams help ensure that you can continue to engage in these activities to the fullest extent possible.

Family Vision Development Center is here to help ensure your complete eye health with comprehensive vision services that range from eyeglasses and contacts to effective vision therapy programs, and even post-concussive visual rehabilitation following a head injury. But it all starts with the vision exams! Contact us today at 630-862-2020 to schedule your appointment and get started on a commitment to healthy vision for life.

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.