senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(303) 660-6005

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 The Meadows Family Eye Care 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 The Meadows Family Eye Care 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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- Jul. 03, 2024
This optometry practice is 100% AWESOME! Rates for services were on par or more affordable compared ... to five others I inquired to. The office staff went above and beyond to inquire with my health insurance to get me an annual exam benefit. Other practices either didn’t work with my insurance or said I didn’t have that benefit. I was able to get an appointment within a matter of days, which was great as my contacts were running out. The reception and optical tech were friendly and time efficient. The optometrist had great bedside manner and informed me about my eye health and things to watch out for down the road more so than any other optometrist had before. The optician was friendly and priced matched to where I usually order contacts. Contacts arrived quickly and pickup was a breeze. All in all an outstanding experience. I will definitely be back. Thanks for being incredible!
- Dec. 29, 2023
Dr Ryan is top professional. They have great diagnostics equipment and a friendly staff.
- Sep. 06, 2023
I haven’t had my eyes checked in a long time. And I liked Ryan Reid very much.
- Aug. 25, 2023
100% recommend Dr. Ryan and his entire staff! I had massive cataracts and he made an excellent refe... rral to Mile High Eye for surgery, then provided fabulous aftercare. The office staff is friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Great experience!
- Aug. 18, 2023
Whole staff is very welcoming and friendly. Special thank you to Dr.Reid for catching my detached re... tina and referring me to a specialist which definitely saved my vision in the long ru .
- Jul. 05, 2023
My son had a bad eye infection that wasn’t clearing with standard medication. Sarah was wonderful... and got us in within an hour! Dr. Mariana did a very thorough exam and made multiple recommendations and prescribed a new eye drop. He was clear within 5 days and ready for his backpacking trip! So grateful for this amazing team!
- May. 03, 2023
I was amazed how attentive, friendly and helpful everyone was! Really enjoyed talking with Dr. Ryan... and he was very thorough and friendly. Was very pleased with the variety of glasses to choose from. Angela helped me and ensured I was happy with our choices on my glasses. She spent so much time with me helping me pick out my glasses and double checking all her measurements for my progressives. I have never experienced this quality of care in eye wellness, thank you!
- Apr. 22, 2023
I have been in the field of ophthalmology for nearly 40 years and Meadows family Eye Care is one of ... the Best facilities I have had care. Doctors & staff including optician was efficient, friendly and very knowledgeable from start to finish ! Highly recommend!
- Apr. 18, 2023
Thank you for an awesome experience! The whole staff is fantastic, experienced and friendly
- Mar. 01, 2023
Angela is absolutely incredible and went above and beyond to secure a doctor’s exam and beautiful ... eye glasses for both my daughter and myself. Angela even stayed later so my daughter could take her time choosing glasses. We have been going here for years and Angela is always so positive, genuine and helpful. She is wonderful and it is because of her we keep continue coming back every year.
- Jan. 12, 2023
Great experience.
- Nov. 17, 2022
Dr Ryan’s was very thorough. He knows his stuff. So knowledgeable. Excellent staff. So caring. H... e’s my go for my annual evaluations going forward. Highly recommend this doctor and facility.
- May. 24, 2022
The staff was friendly and accommodating and absolutely helpful. I broke my glasses on accident and ... they were fast to help me get my sight back.
- Jan. 11, 2022
Amazing professional and friendly service. And they have a wonderful and affordable selection of fra... mes.
- Oct. 12, 2021
The Meadows Family Eye Care is our new place for eye care! We moved to Castle Rock from Denver and n... eeded a new Optometrist. My husband and I were both impressed with the level of care from both Drs, the thoroughness of our exams, the qualified, friendly staff and the eye glass choices for any budget. You will not be disappointed choosing the Meadows Family Eye Care as your new eye care facility. We are certainly happy we found both Dr. Reids!
- Sep. 30, 2021
This place is 5+ Stars. It's a beautiful and comfortable environment where everyone is friendly and ... makes you feel welcome. The doctors (the Reids) are amazing. They take the time to explain EVERYTHING. They have recruited Opticians with 20+ years experience. They didn't skimp on customer service and the price is comparable to other places in town. My daughter couldn't be happier with her new glasses. Keep up the great work!
- Aug. 11, 2021
Their professionalism, and genuine concern for every aspect of patient care is above reproach! After... receiving the highest level of care during my recent visit, I had a transportation emergency. Regrettably, their names escape me, but the optician and several other staff members went ABOVE and BEYOND to assist me. I was deeply touched by their level of dedication, kindness, and it is for these reasons that I HIGHLY recommend this dedicated eye care team!
- May. 04, 2021
This place is amazing. From the first smiling faces you see when you walk through the door, to the w... hole exam team. I was completely comfortable and relaxed the entire time. Nothing felt intrusive or uncomfortable. And they got me in and out and I felt completely taken care of. 10/10 would recommend! This is the eye clinic for you 😊
- Apr. 06, 2021
I have been going here for a few years now and have been very happy. Both Dr. Maia and Dr. Ryan are... very professional and personable. They are patient when examining my children and have provided the best care for me and my families vision. With 4 children who all have different vision needs they haven’t missed a beat with providing the best options for all our needs, they answer all my questions and are both very easy to communicate with. The office staff is friendly and professional. And the new technology they have brought in is top notch!!!
- Feb. 16, 2021
Update: changing my 4 star review because they are a business that wants to do what it takes to earn... my business. They called me after I left this review and we had a great discussion on my experience. I do hope that the feedback was taken and that the owners are able to take a step and evaluate priorities and take care of their staff (if that's what's needed). My experience with the Meadows family eye care was okay, not great. In short the 4 stars goes to whoever was working in the front desk...she was awesome and very professional. Most other staff made me feel rushed especially when I had questions around the fit and additional contact lens testing. My doctor was very nice and also very professional. The stars go to my doctor and the staff member working at the front desk!

View All 427 Reviews

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Castle Rock

Our optometry practice in Castle Rock

Photograph of Courtney  Brilley
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Anthem
  • Blue Cross

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(303) 660-6005