VIEWS FOR 20/20 by Dr. Mark Skowron AGING EFFECT The leading cause of vision loss in people over age 65, "age-related macular degeneration" (AMD), involves the breakdown of cells in the "macula" (the small area of the retina that gives us sharp eyesight and central vision). "Dry" AMD, which accounts for 90% of cases, is identified by the presence of "drusen," small, whitish-yellow deposits that accumulate in the retina and break down the light-sensing cells of the macula. Early symptoms include distorted outlines and blurry or blank spots in the center of the visual field. "Wet" AMD, the more damaging form, is characterized by an overgrowth of blood vessels in the macula. Most wet AMD, which usually progresses to blindness, occurs among those who already have dry AMD. AMD can cause a permanent, total loss of central vision if not treated. Vision loss can lead to a condition called low vision which can have a very serious impact on daily living and require a lot of assistance both by vision devices and the help of others. When you need to schedule an eye exam, please contact SKOWRON EYE CARE. Our goal is to help you maintain a lifetime of healthy, clear, comfortable vision by using the latest in technologies. At Skowron eyecare, your 20/20 vision is our mission. P.S. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of vision loss in patients younger than 65 years of age. SKOWRON EYE CARE 370 N. York, Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-834-6244 www.skowroneyecare.com VIEWS FOR 20/20 by Dr. Mark Skowron AGING EFFECT The leading cause of vision loss in people over age 65, "age-related macular degeneration" (AMD), involves the breakdown of cells in the "macula" (the small area of the retina that gives us sharp eyesight and central vision). "Dry" AMD, which accounts for 90% of cases, is identified by the presence of "drusen," small, whitish-yellow deposits that accumulate in the retina and break down the light-sensing cells of the macula. Early symptoms include distorted outlines and blurry or blank spots in the center of the visual field. "Wet" AMD, the more damaging form, is characterized by an overgrowth of blood vessels in the macula. Most wet AMD, which usually progresses to blindness, occurs among those who already have dry AMD. AMD can cause a permanent, total loss of central vision if not treated. Vision loss can lead to a condition called low vision which can have a very serious impact on daily living and require a lot of assistance both by vision devices and the help of others. When you need to schedule an eye exam, please contact SKOWRON EYE CARE. Our goal is to help you maintain a lifetime of healthy, clear, comfortable vision by using the latest in technologies. At Skowron eyecare, your 20/20 vision is our mission. P.S. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of vision loss in patients younger than 65 years of age. SKOWRON EYE CARE 370 N. York, Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-834-6244 www.skowroneyecare.com