Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can feel confusing or even scary, especially when it begins affecting your life. Envision Eye Care helps patients across Marion, Cedar Bluff, Bristol, Abingdon, and Gray understand their risks, detect changes early, and manage AMD with personalized care plans. With early detection and steady support, you can protect your vision and stay confident in the activities you love.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration Management
Steady care brings peace of mind
Early Detection in Southwest Virginia & Northeast Tennessee
What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
AMD is one of the most common causes of vision loss in adults over 65. It affects the macula, the small part of your retina responsible for sharp, central vision. AMD doesn’t cause complete blindness, but it can make everyday tasks like reading, recognizing faces, and driving more difficult. There are two main types:
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Dry AMD: This is the most common form. Small yellow deposits called drusen form beneath the macula. Over time, this can cause gradual changes in central vision.
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Wet AMD: Less common but more serious. New or unhealthy blood vessels begin to grow under the retina and can leak or bleed, causing sudden and significant vision changes.
You may be at higher risk for AMD if you:
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Are over age 50
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Have a family history of AMD
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Smoke
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Have cardiovascular disease
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Have long-term sun exposure without UV protection
Symptoms of AMD
AMD often develops slowly, and many people don’t notice symptoms until the condition has already progressed. That’s why early detection is so important.
Common symptoms of dry AMD:
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Trouble seeing in low light
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Colors are looking less bright
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A general hazy or blurry quality to central vision
Common symptoms of wet AMD:
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Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
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A dark or gray spot in the center of your vision
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Sudden trouble reading or recognizing faces
If you notice any of these changes, especially sudden ones, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
How Envision Eye Care Diagnoses AMD
AMD can be difficult to self-diagnose because many symptoms overlap with other conditions. That’s why regular eye exams matter so much, especially if you're over 40 or have a family history of AMD. During your exam, we may use:
OCT Imaging
Provides a detailed, cross-section view of your retina so we can look for early macular changes.
Drusen Detection
We check for drusen, the yellow deposits commonly seen in AMD.
Visual Acuity and Distortion Testing
Helps us understand how AMD may be affecting your central vision.
AdaptDX
This is where Envision Eye Care shines. AdaptDX measures how quickly your eyes adjust to darkness, an early sign of AMD. In the past, dark adaptation testing could take nearly an hour per eye. AdaptDX lets us complete this evaluation much faster, giving us clearer insight into early changes long before symptoms appear.
AMD Treatment in Virginia & Tennessee
While AMD cannot be reversed, the right care can slow progression, protect your remaining vision, and help you stay independent. Your treatment plan may include:
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Nutritional supplements (AREDS2 and other doctor-recommended vitamins)
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Lifestyle guidance, including nutrition and UV protection
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Monitoring wet AMD closely and referring quickly for injections when needed
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Low vision tools, such as handheld magnifiers, specialized glasses, or electronic aids
Our eye doctors create a personalized plan based on your AMD stage, overall health, and the activities most important to you.
If your AMD has already progressed, please know this: There are still many ways to help you see comfortably and move through your day with confidence.
We’re here to guide you
Get Personalized Care Close to Home
Early detection and consistent care can make a meaningful difference when navigating AMD. Our team is here to support you with clarity, compassion, and the most advanced diagnostic tools available. Schedule your macular degeneration evaluation at any of our five locations in Marion, Cedar Bluff, Bristol, Abingdon, or Gray.