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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.
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