senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(913) 782-5993

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 Olathe Family Vision 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 Olathe Family Vision 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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86 Reviews
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- Jan. 25, 2025
Competent, efficient, friendly, and able to schedule appts in a timely manner.
- Jan. 04, 2025
Dr. Hemphill is amazing with kids! My son was in a bad mood and didn’t want to do anything. But he... got him laughing and got through everything he needed to quickly. His patience and creativity is amazing! Highly recommend
- Jan. 02, 2025
Good folks, great care…
- Dec. 14, 2024
Great patient care!
- Dec. 07, 2024
Dr. Wayne Hemphill is the only eye doctor I’ve found whose first priority is what I want with my v... ision as opposed to a doctor ‘fixing’everything.
- Nov. 05, 2024
They make you feel at home, do not rush you in and out. Make sure you have the best testing and glas... ses available.
- Oct. 30, 2024
We’ve been patients for 3 years now and I can’t say enough good things about both Dr. Hemphill�... �s and their practice! They are top notch, caring and compassionate, explain each step during the exam and truly care about their patients. They have gone above and beyond two separate times to remove foreign objects from two of my kids eyes (caked dirt for one & a tiny wood chip for the other). If I could give them 10 stars, I would!
- Oct. 24, 2024
We have been patients for nearly 35 years and have always been treated with the utmost care. They ar... e like family to us!!
- Oct. 18, 2024
good service
- Sep. 21, 2024
Great office and excellent care
- Sep. 18, 2024
Dr. Hemphill became our eye doctor 23 years ago after he saw our now college graduate son for his 3 ... Year Old “See to Learn” Screening. Our son and daughter have always enjoyed his humor and kindness and actually looked forward to their annual check-ups, as did we! We transitioned to his care as well, so over the years he’s seen the WHOLE FAMILY! He has helped my husband and I with some challenging vision situations. It is so comforting knowing he will do everything he can to give you relief and maintain your vision. So grateful!
- Aug. 09, 2024
I was treated on time in a professional and friendly manner.
- Jul. 26, 2024
Love the people there! Very helpful in taking care of my eye health.
- Jul. 19, 2024
The Hemphills -- Mary and Wayne -- have always provided a high standard of care.
- Jul. 04, 2024
Both Dr. Wayne and Dr. Mary are so knowledgeable and explain everything during the appointment. Love... coming here- it’s one of our favorite medical experiences ever.
- Mar. 22, 2024
Great place to go to get new glasses and eye appointments
- Mar. 13, 2024
Great service - on time and never felt rushed! Very caring and compassionate service.
- Mar. 01, 2024
Dr Hemphil is the best! Caring and a true professional.
- Dec. 08, 2023
Dr. Wayne Hemphill has been our family optometrist for over 30 years. He is not only very knowledga... ble and skilled, but is a very caring person. He takes the time to answer questions, too.
- Oct. 17, 2023
Was traveling in Utah. Started having issues with left eye. A couple text messages and one photo ... of my eye, Dr. Wayne had the issue diagnosed and a script sent to a pharmacy in Mohab, UT. Trip saved. Thanks Dr. Wayne!!!!

View All 86 Reviews

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Olathe

Our optometry practice in Olathe

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Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(913) 782-5993