Center For Macular Health
Center for Macular Health Tri-County Eye Center... changing the view of AMD!
We are dedicated to the advancements in technology that help preserve vision. We are currently using two new advanced tests that help prevent, preserve and improve the quality of vision in those individuals who already have developed Macular Degeneration or have a family history of Macular Degeneration, or other risk factors for the development of this devastating eye disease.
We provide:
1. Zeavision QuantifEye Technology: which identifies those patients at risk for developing MacularDegeneration (AMD).
2. Macula Risk: Genetic testing for those individuals who have already developed early or intermediate levels of Macular Degeneration.
The descriptions of these tests are to follow…
What is the Macula?
The macula is the control portion of the retina responsible for sharp detailed central vision.
What is Age Related Macular Degeneration?
Age related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in adults 55 and older. It can occur at much earlier ages as well. AMD affects 15 million people in the U.S. alone. Early symptoms of Macular Degeneration are not noticed nor do they affect vision or cause eye pain. Mild to advanced macular degeneration symptoms include visual distortion, blurring of vision, difficulty reading, and problems with facial recognition.
Wet AMD bleeds suddenly Dry AMD has drusen or yellow spots
Am I at risk?
The affects of Macular Degeneration, AMD, are permanent and irreversible once the disease is advanced so it is important to understand the risk factors.
Major Risk Factors
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Family History
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Smoking (past or present)
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Low Macular pigment
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Age
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Light colored eyes or skin
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Unprotected exposure to the sun
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Females risk is greater than males
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Obesity
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Poor diet
What can be done to minimize my risk for Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
Researchers have proven through landmark studies AREDS I, AREDS II, and the Blue Mountain Study that LOW MACULAR PIGMENT is associated with macular degeneration.
We at the Tri-County Eye Center can provide you with a risk analysis through the use of a device called QUANTIFEYE, developed by ZEAVISION (www.zeavision.com).
QUANTIFEYE measures macular pigment density through a simple
non-invasive exam that determines your macular pigment levels or
Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD). This test takes about 3-5
minutes to take. If the test indicates low macular pigment, the levels
may be increased with dietary changes and nutritional
supplementation.
It is never too early to take steps to preserve your vision!
SUPPLEMENTS, which will increase your macular pigment to a
healthier level to protect your vision.
EYEPROMISE supplements rebuild macular pigment by replenishing
Zeaxanthin and Lutein to preserve healthy vision. Zeaxanthin is
scarce in the average daily diet and EyePromise offers the highest
levels of Zeaxanthin available. 1-866-833-2800
www.zeavision.com
(35 million doses have been safely prescribed to date
EYEPROMISE RESTORE FEATURES:
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Same natural 2:1 ratio of Zeaxanthin and Lutein found in healthy maculas.
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Highest level of Zeaxanthin available from all natural paprika.
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Highest quality ingredients grown and manufactured in the U.S.
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Designed to be take with a multivitamin.
One EyePromise softgel contains 8mg of Zeaxanthin equal to 20 ears of corn in an easy to digest softgel.
Please do not hesitate to ask our office staff about the QuantifEye test and Eyepromise Supplements or visit www.zeavision.com for more information.
What if I show signs of Macular Degeneration?
MACULA RISK - A new genetic test is paid for by Medicare and most private insurance companies. The maximum copay is $25.00.
Macula Risk uses your own DNA from the cells of your inner cheeks. A
simple swabbing of both cheeks provides the only sample required and is
completed in seconds. Its is then mailed to the lab and results are usually
obtained in 4-6 weeks.
Macula Risk is a test intended for patients who have a diagnosis of early
or intermediate Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
We order Macula Risk in order to identify your risk of vision loss. There is
no charge from our office for the Macula Risk test.
The incidence of Macular Degeneration (AMD) is 1 in 10 people over 60 years of age, and 1 in 4 people over 75. Vision loss can happen quickly and without warning. With current treatment and nutraceuticals it may be arrested and, in some cases, vision may be improved. Early detection and treatment is critical for prevention of blindness.
Macula Risk helps Dr. Funk and Staff recommend the frequency of monitoring needed for each individual. There are 5 risk levels defined using your DNA for the Macula Risk test. Risk levels 3,4,5 represent 20% of people. They have a higher than average risk of vision loss from AMD. For more information visit www.macularisk.com.
If you have a family history of Macular Degeneration please consider these simple painless and quick tests. It may save your vision. Genetics identify patients at risk of progression! Fifteen million people in the U.S. have Macular Degeneration and there are 5 million new cases every year. The most devastating form of AMD is treatable! You need to catch the disease at the right time! 80% of patients show up too late! Macula Risk Testing helps us manage your disease more accurately by determining how frequently you need to have your eyes examined and what diagnostic tests are appropriate.
Please call us at Tri-County Eye Center if you have a family history of Macular Degeneration (AMD)
(309) 444 - 5188 to schedule an appointment!
