senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(360) 459-3333

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also called AMD or age-related macular degeneration, occurs when the macula — the central portion of the retina — begins to wear down, causing central vision loss.

People who suffer from AMD tend to lose their “straight ahead” vision, making it difficult to read, drive, and recognize faces. 

Total vision loss is unlikely, as there's typically enough peripheral vision to allow for other activities of daily life. 

Man with macular degeneration


Types of Macular Degeneration:

macular degeneration types

  • Dry AMD: small deposits called drusen damage retinal nerve cells and reduce vision
  • Wet AMD: new blood vessels form that leak and release fluid that harms the macula. This is a more severe form of AMD that can more quickly cause vision loss.

Don’t Let AMD Rob You of Your Sight

An estimated 196 million people are living with macular degeneration worldwide. Although those affected by it rarely lose all their vision, the vast majority suffer from some degree of vision loss. 

While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are certain treatments that can slow its progression — and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

If you think you're at risk or are experiencing symptoms, contact Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Risk Factors for AMD

  • Aged 50+

    The onset of AMD usually happens over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.

  • Lifestyle factors

    Smoking or eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.

  • Obesity

    Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.

  • Family History

    If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.


How to Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration

While there isn’t yet a cure for AMD or an effective way of reversing vision loss that has already occurred, you can take certain steps and adopt new habits to slow the progression of the disease.

Furthermore, certain treatments can slow its progression and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

Talk to us about how you can slow the progression of the disease and avoid vision loss by contacting Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic today. 

Photograph


Macular Degeneration FAQs

What are the first signs of AMD?

You may have AMD and not know it. Typically, symptoms may not develop until the advanced stage of the eye disease.

First signs of AMD may include: 

  • Blurred vision
  • Blind spots or dark spots
  • Straight lines appearing distorted or wavy
  • Faded colors 

 For early detection and better outcomes, it's important to undergo regular eye exams at our eye clinic, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. 

How common is macular degeneration?

Statistics indicate that 8.7% of the world population has macular degeneration. The rate of AMD is expected to increase from 196 million in 2022 to 288 million by 2040.

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

Currently, the most common treatment for wet AMD is the injection of medications called anti-VEGF agents. High levels of VEGF in the eye increase the formation of abnormal blood vessels that cause much of the damage in wet AMD.

Patient Reviews
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502 Reviews
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- Aug. 25, 2025
I highly recommend this place. Dr. Durham is the best! Great care and I always get some laughs I nev... er knew I needed. Thanks again Dr. D....you rock!!
- Aug. 20, 2025
An incredible full service vision clinic. From medical issues to glasses, they do a great job.
- Aug. 13, 2025
Efficient and friendly service!
- Aug. 07, 2025
Great vision care here with Dr Piranio. He is friendly and makes patients comfortable. Quick and e... asy, highly recommended.
- Jul. 29, 2025
Professionals at their best.
- Jul. 29, 2025
Dr. Durham is a great optometrist that I highly recommend. She is professional and kind. She graciou... sly answered all of my questions and explained in a way I could understand.
- Jul. 25, 2025
Such a great experience. They got me in a little early so I had no waiting at all. Personable people... who obviously love what they do.
- Jul. 12, 2025
They are a bunch of sweethearts and they care and we don't have enough of that in this world today I... 'd recommend them 100%
- Jul. 02, 2025
Very helpful
- Jun. 11, 2025
Everyone is amazing
- Jun. 11, 2025
I love coming in for my visits with Dr Durham! She is so friendly and knowledgeable. I have been see... ing this office since I moved to the area 9 years ago, and will continue to do so for all my vision needs. They also have a nice optical department in house, and have always had great luck with my glasses. Would highly recommend making an appointment here
- Jun. 05, 2025
Caring, personal treatment
- May. 21, 2025
I am a return client with Hawks Prarie vision. I will continue to use them for all of my eye care. M... ichelle was very thorough and friendly. Changes in my vision were explained to my understanding. I also received great help from Katie in their front office picking out and getting measured for sunglasses. She was great at helping me stay on budget. I highly recommend!
- May. 21, 2025
Wonderful staff to work with everyone. This is one facility that I would only love to attend. Staf... f great for making sure your information is up to date, seeing and identifying your vision and proper fitting for your eye wear.
- May. 09, 2025
Very attentive and offered options
- Apr. 30, 2025
I have been going there for years, when it was at the other location. I really like the staff, they ... don't talk down to you. They will explain everything that you don't understand. They also don't rush you in and out. I have always had great experience, down size is, its hard to get appointments soon might take months, so that tell you they are awsome.
- Apr. 24, 2025
Staff and doctors are friendly, share info freely, explain any issues fully, make sure I understand ... completely.
- Apr. 22, 2025
Great communication, great care.
- Apr. 12, 2025
Great team from the minute you walk in the door to the caring and super knowledgeable doctor. Small ... but mighty eye and vision care provider.
- Apr. 06, 2025
Best eye clinic I have found in the Olympia/Lacey area. They listen and they take their time to ensu... re that your prescription is correct. They are respectful and friendly. I have been going here for years and have never had a problem.

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Lacey

Our optometry practice in Lacey

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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

Don’t let AMD stop you from doing the things you love.

(360) 459-3333