Coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration

The sudden stress that even the smallest amounts of vision loss impose on people can feel crushing. Education and knowledge about the best strategies and tools to regain your independence is vital. Here are some tips for coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration:

Coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration in Hixson

Stay informed about AMD

It is important to understand your condition and know what to expect as it progresses. Our low vision optometrist can provide you with information about your specific case, what are some of the challenges that may occur and why, and help you understand your options for improving your vision and managing your condition. 

There is nothing more traumatic than sudden changes in vision, it is important to fully understand the changes and how to best live with them. 

Use low vision devices for AMD

There are many low vision devices that are available that can help you see better and perform daily activities with greater ease. These may include magnifiers, special glasses, filtered lenses, and adaptive computer software. Our low vision optometrist and therapist can help you choose the right aids for your needs.

Seek support from government, non-profit, and medical resources

Coping with vision loss can be emotionally and physically challenging. It is important to seek support from friends, family, and support groups. Our eye doctor may also be able to refer you to a counselor or support group in your area. Having the support from a low vision optometrist is an important member of your care team.. 

Stay active

Regular physical activity can help you maintain your physical and mental health. It is important to find activities that you enjoy and that are within your capabilities.

Make your home and workplace accessible

There are many changes you can make to your home and workplace to make them more accessible and safe. These may include installing bright lighting, using contrasting colors, and removing tripping hazards. Our eye doctor or a low vision rehabilitation specialist can provide you with more specific recommendations. 

Keep a healthy lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you manage your condition and reduce your risk of other health problems. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and managing any chronic conditions you may have.

If you or a loved one is coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration, it is important to work closely with our low vision optometrist. Our low vision optometrist can provide you with the necessary care and support to manage your condition and maintain your quality of life. To schedule a low vision exam, please call (423) 710 3965.

Amplify Eyecare Chattanooga

Understand how macular degeneration will impact your vision

As a low vision optometrist, it's important to understand the different stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the associated symptoms.

Early-stage dry AMD typically has no noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may develop:

  • Difficulty reading or performing tasks that require fine vision
  • Need for brighter light when reading or doing close-up work
  • Blurriness in the central vision, especially when reading or looking at fine details
  • Decreased contrast sensitivity
  • Decreased ability to adapt to changes in lighting 
  • Difficulty with glare sensitivity
  • Difficulty seeing in low light conditions
  • Need for frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
  • Difficulty recognizing faces
  • Colors may appear less vivid
  • Decreased ability to see fine detail

In intermediate-stage dry AMD, some people may still have no symptoms, but others may experience the following:

  • Blurriness in the central vision that is more noticeable
  • Difficulty reading and performing daily tasks
  • Need for brighter light and increased contrast when reading or doing close-up work
  • Distorted or wavy vision, especially when looking at straight lines
  • Blind spots or scotomas in the central vision
  • Difficulty with low light situations
  • Need for increased magnification when reading
  • Difficulty adjusting to changes in light levels
  • Blurriness in the central vision that is more noticeable
  • Increased sensitivity to glare and bright lights
  • Harder to recognize faces or people's facial expressions

Late-stage dry AMD can cause severe vision loss and the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty with activities of daily living, such as driving or cooking
  • Seeing black or gray spots in the central vision
  • Hallucinations or illusions, such as seeing shapes or people that aren't there
  • Distorted perception of size and distance
  • Blind spots or missing areas in the central vision
  • Difficulty recognizing faces
  • Difficulty reading 
  • Need for brighter light and increased contrast
  • Decreased ability to see colors
  • Complete loss of central vision

It's important to note that the symptoms of wet AMD, a less common and more severe form of the disease, can progress rapidly and lead to sudden vision loss. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, it's crucial to seek prompt medical attention.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the macula, a small area located in the center of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It is a common cause of vision loss, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. When the macula begins to deteriorate, it can lead to a loss of central vision and make it difficult to see fine details. There is no cure for macular degeneration, but there are steps that can be taken to slow its progression and manage its symptoms.

What is Macular Degeneration?
How Macular Degeneration Affects Your Sight: Symptoms You Need to Know

How Macular Degeneration Affects Your Sight: Symptoms You Need to Know

Are you experiencing any changes in your vision, such as blurriness or distortion? Are you having difficulty reading or performing tasks that require fine vision? Are you noticing a decreased ability to see colors accurately, or a dark or empty area in your central field of vision? Do straight lines appear wavy or distorted to you? If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from macular degeneration.

It is crucial to see our qualified eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can help to preserve your vision and maintain overall eye health. Don't hesitate, call (423) 710 3965 today to schedule a low vision exam.

How Macular Degeneration Affects Your Sight: Symptoms You Need to Know

How Can I Find a Low Vision Optometrist Near Me?

If you are searching for a low vision optometrist, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional. Simply search for "low vision eye doctor near me" or "low vision optometrist near me" to find a list of professionals in your area. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family, or consult with your primary care doctor for a referral.

Common Questions

While there is no sure way to prevent macular degeneration, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include not smoking, maintaining a healthy diet and blood pressure, and wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration, call us to schedule an evaluation today at (423) 710 3965. We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced eye care for patients with macular degeneration from Hixson, Chattanooga, Cleveland, and Middle Valley.
The treatment options for macular degeneration depend on the stage and severity of the condition. Your retina specialist and low vision optometrist can work together to provide you with the best treatment and care plan. Our low vision optometrist can guide you on your available options and provide you with information and explanations. Your treatment may include medications, such as antioxidants and anti-VEGF drugs, as well as low vision devices, such as magnifiers and special glasses. The key is to be fully educated and prepared while maximizing your remaining vision. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration, call us to schedule an evaluation today at (423) 710 3965. We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced eye care for patients from Hixson, Chattanooga, Cleveland, and Middle Valley.
Coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration
Dr. McBryar cartoon

Find a low vision doctor near you in (423) 710 3965 for macular degeneration

If you or a loved one is experiencing vision loss due to macular degeneration, don't wait to seek help. A low vision eye exam with our low vision optometrist near you can help to diagnose and manage your condition and maximize your remaining vision. Don't let macular degeneration hold you back, take control of your vision and call (423) 710 3965 today to schedule an appointment. Patients with macular degeneration visit our clinic from all over Tennessee, and we are proud to be a leading provider of low vision eye care services for macular degeneration patients from Hixson, Chattanooga, Cleveland, and Middle Valley.

Testimonials


Vision therapy is well worth the response, time and effort. Our Son had a hard time focusing and writing neatly. After vision therapy Seth could complete a task in half the time if previously took. His abilities to focus improved greatly and so did his handwriting.

Also, he was better at listening. As a parent, we wanted learning to be fun for our Son, and vision therapy made this possible.


Amanda T.

Vision Therapy is well worth the expense, time and effort. Our son had a hard time focusing handwriting neatly. After vision therapy Seth could complete a task in half the time it previously took his abilities to focus and improved greatly and so did his handwriting.

Also, he was better at listening. As a parent you wanted learning to be fun for our son and vision therapy made this possible.


Alexa H.

Vision Therapy has given or son the tools he needs to be able to scan and read the written word more effectively and efficiently.

He love working with John and these working sessions give him the motivation to gladly work on his homework assignments.

It amazed us to see the difference in the tracking of his eyes and along a line of it's from the beginning to the end of the treatment.

Dr. McBryar , Kristen and John  are all marvelous and we would recommend them to anyone I only wish that we would have found them sooner!


Charlotte M.

Prior to coming to the institute for vision development my son complained of daily headaches. Therapy has eliminated his headaches completely. I love knowing my son is able to learn pain-free for the rest of his life because of the work that has been done over just a few weeks in this office. He he absolutely loved coming that didn't even feel like going to a doctor or therapy. We are grateful for the relief he was able to find by coming here.

Thank you!


Olivia C.

Seems much less frustrated with life

Reads non-stop and fast

Spelling abilities have been hugely improved

Seems much more confident

Thank You!!!


Kelly O.

When we first came to the practice, my son did not have huge issues, but lots of small ones- trouble with reading, sports (hitting the baseball consistently), coordination, etc- that were not easily detectable,but when put together presented issues. The staff here were all very professional and loving towards him. While I was concerned in the reading, my son was concerned with the athletic side. Seeing improvement night off the bat gave him confidence that i have nor seen in him and made him want to not only Come to therapy, but also made him want to work hard. He has surpassed his grade level and above in reading and hit his first home run this year! Thank you!!!


Alice M.
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