The onset of macular degeneration can be gradual – slightly blurred vision in one eye, or trouble discerning sharp contrasts in color – with a dramatic decrease in visual acuity over a very short period of time. Unfortunately, macular degeneration, a condition characterized by the destruction of the central portion of the retina, called the macula, affects an estimated 11 million Americans and is the primary cause of vision loss in people over the age of 60.

Using innovative technology and a focus on early detection, Dr. Lalin specializes in diagnosing and treating macular degeneration in both our Morristown and Hackettstown locations.

Early diagnosis is key to successfully treating macular degeneration. Dr. Lalin uses the latest imaging technology combining angiography, a type of imaging that allows him to see abnormal blood vessels which may be contributing to macular cell damage, and high definition spectral-domain OCT technology, which provides an incredibly detailed view of the macula. Using this dynamic approach to central retinal imaging, Dr. Lalin can identify damage at its earliest stages, and recommend the best treatment plan to preserve your vision. Treatment options may include dietary or lifestyle modifications, medications, and surgery.

The retina is the innermost layer of the eye, a delicate, light-sensitive layer of tissue that controls how we perceive light and color, and plays a key role in forming images of the world around us. The macula is the retina’s central portion that allows us to see objects and light in our central field of vision. In other words, the macula allows us to read, drive, recognize faces, and perform other daily activities. As we age, however, the macula can sustain damage in two ways:

• Dry macular degeneration is a slow breakdown of the light-sensitive cells in the macula or central vision, leading to blurry vision and blind spots.
• Wet macular degeneration can lead to rapid vision loss from leaking or bleeding abnormal blood vessels in the macula. The abnormal vessels are an attempt by the body to repair damage to rod and cone cells affected by dry macular degeneration.

Common symptoms of macular degeneration include:

• Blurred vision or dimness, especially when reading or looking at people’s faces.
• Loss of contrast perception and a decrease in the brightness of colors.
• Blind spots in the center field of vision.

Many patients may not even realize their vision has become compromised until one eye is covered, and symptoms can occur in one eye or both eyes. If you’re over the age of 50 and have noticed even subtle changes in your vision, schedule an appointment with Dr. Lalin or Dr. Shah to undergo an eye health examination.