Normal vision	Central vision lost to macular degeneration

Macular degeneration in Chicago is a little-understood, incurable eye disease caused by deterioration of the central portion of the retina. According to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, the disease affects more Americans than cataracts and glaucoma combined. Simply, the retina is the inside portion of the eye that receives light and sends these images to the optic nerve where images are then sent to the brain to be translated into what we know as "sight." When central retinal cells (also known as the "macula") deteriorate, they are unable to transfer light to the optic nerve and central vision deteriorates. Patients with macular degeneration lose central vision that may result in the inability to read, drive, watch television, or see objects in fine detail.

To date, there is no cure, although research, albeit suffering under limited budget constraints, is advancing to learning more about the disease.

The National Eye Institute has done much to enhance the cause of healthy vision, including the following pioneering advances:

• NEI-supported scientists are determining whether transplanting healthy cells into the macula might lead to better ision for people with blinding diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration.
• Researchers are exploring the effects that gene-based treatment strategies may have on slowing some forms of retinal degeneration.

Patients with macular degeneration should check the vision in each eye every day with a grid to make sure vision is not deteriorating. Dr. Sondheimer will give you a grid when you see him for an examination. Patients with macular degeneration should use vitamins for their vision. Dr. Sondheimer will recommend the best vitamin therapy for you.

In addition to treating macular degeneration and other diseases of the retina, Dr. Sondheimer also helps Chicago LASIK, glaucoma and cataracts patients with their eye health needs.