Hope for those with Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

February 3, 2003- Provo, UT- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual impairment in Caucasians over the age of 50 in the United States. Although there is currently no cure, there is hope for those with AMD.

As part of Age-Related Macular Degeneration / Low Vision Awareness Month in February, Randal N. Ellsworth, M.D., ophthalmologist at Excel Eye Center of Provo, urges Utah Valley residents to be screened for age-related vision problems.

“It is important after the age of 50 to schedule regular, annual eye exams, especially if you are experiencing vision loss,” said Dr. Ellsworth.

Macular degeneration is a progressive, usually painless disease that affects the macula, the spot on the retina at the back of the eye responsible for central vision, causing central vision to blur, but leaving peripheral vision intact. Thus, AMD does not lead to total blindness.

“Research continues for AMD treatments, and I think we'll see increasingly effective treatments becoming available in the near future. For example, current findings show that high levels of zinc and antioxidants can play a key role in slowing the progression of advanced AMD and that conventional laser and photodynamic therapy can reduce the risk of moderate to severe vision loss in patients with specific forms of macular degeneration,” said Dr. Ellsworth. “Other experimental treatments, including intraocular injections and the insertion of a “retinal chip” which may restore vision loss are also currently being investigated.”

Some companies claim they have found cures for macular degeneration. “People should beware of claims being made on the Internet, in newspapers and in magazines announcing cures for macular degeneration. Investigate the claims thoroughly and talk with your Eye M.D. before undergoing any treatments,” said James G. Theurer, M.D., ophthalmologist at Excel Eye Center of Provo. “Most of these treatments have not been proven safe or effective, and may be very costly.”

Vision loss doesn't have to mean loss of independence or quality of life. If you have low vision, ask your Excel doctor about low vision rehabilitation. He can provide low vision services or refer you to local agencies that can help.
Early detection and treatment is the best defense against losing your vision.

If you are over the age of 50, smoke, have hypertension or a family history of AMD see your Eye M.D. for a complete eye exam at least every one to two years.

About Excel Eye Center

For more than 80 years, Excel Eye Center has been the standard for eye care in Utah County by consistently providing the highest available levels of professional eye treatment in a caring and friendly environment. Today the company is among the largest private ophthalmologic practices in the Western United States with full-service treatment centers in Provo, Orem, American Fork, and Payson and satellite offices in Nephi, Fillmore, Mt. Pleasant, Richfield, Gunnison, and Delta. In addition to offering a complete range of ophthalmologic and optometric services, the company also specializes in laser-assisted corrective surgery, (including LASIK), pediatric ophthalmology, cataract care and cosmetic surgery. For more information, call (801) 374-1818 or visit www.exceleyecenter.com.

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