Losing clarity in your central vision can make reading, driving, or recognizing faces difficult, but macular degeneration doesn’t have to define your future and life. At Eye MDs of Inland, Dr. Marc Shomer and Dr. Robert Gunzenhauser use advanced treatments to preserve and protect your sight, helping you maintain independence and lifelong visual confidence.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of your retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. As this area deteriorates, you may notice blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading, or challenges recognizing faces. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults, but it can often be managed effectively when detected promptly. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet.
Signs & Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
- Blurred or fuzzy central vision that worsens over time
- Difficulty reading, driving, or recognizing faces
- Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted (metamorphopsia)
- Dark, empty, or blind spots in the center of your vision
- Reduced brightness or intensity of colors
- Trouble adapting to low-light or dim environments
- Increased need for brighter lighting while performing close-up tasks
Dry Macular Degeneration
Dry macular degeneration is the more common form, occurring when the macula gradually thins and light-sensitive cells break down over time. This leads to slow, progressive vision changes and can develop in one or both eyes. Regular monitoring and advanced imaging at Eye MDs of Inland help track disease progression and preserve as much vision as possible.
Wet Macular Degeneration
Wet macular degeneration is less common but more serious. It develops when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina, leaking fluid or blood and rapidly damaging central vision. Dr. Shomer and Dr. Gunzenhauser use advanced diagnostic imaging and precise treatments, such as intravitreal injections, to control leakage, prevent further damage, and stabilize your sight.
What Causes Macular Degeneration?
The macula, located at the center of your retina, is responsible for sharp central vision that allows you to read, drive, and see fine details clearly. Over time, changes in the retina or the growth of abnormal blood vessels can damage this area, leading to macular degeneration.
While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several factors can increase your risk, including:
- Aging and natural retinal wear over time
- Family history or genetic predisposition
- Smoking, which reduces blood flow to the retina
- High blood pressure or cardiovascular disease
- Excessive sun exposure without UV protection
- Poor diet lacking antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle habits
How is Macular
Degeneration Treated?
At Eye MDs of Inland, your treatment begins with a thorough diagnostic evaluation using advanced retinal imaging to determine the type and stage of macular degeneration. For dry forms, care may include nutritional supplements, lifestyle guidance, and close monitoring to slow progression. Wet macular degeneration may be managed with precision intravitreal injections to stabilize central vision.
As a single-site, physician-owned ophthalmology practice, Dr. Shomer and Dr. Gunzenhauser provide highly personalized eye care. Every treatment is tailored to your visual needs and delivered in a compassionate setting. Each step is carefully explained so you understand your diagnosis, options, and long-term care plan. The goal is simple: to help you preserve clear, functional vision and leave each visit feeling informed, confident, and supported.
Protect Your Sight for Life
Eye MDs of Inland is led by board-certified ophthalmologists Dr. Marc Shomer and Dr. Robert Gunzenhauser, both of whom are trained at the prestigious Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA. With extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing complex retinal conditions, they provide advanced, compassionate care tailored to your unique vision needs. Schedule your consultation for macular degeneration in Upland, CA, and take the first step toward preserving lifelong vision.
