Detecting Macular Degeneration With AdaptDX

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of adult blindness in the United States, and your risk for developing it increases as you age. While 1 in 14 Americans over the age of 40 have AMD, it goes up to 1 in 8 for those who are over the age of 60.
 

Most people don’t experience symptoms during the early stages of the disease. This allows it to progress unchecked until it starts to steal the vision. Then, the damage is already done.
 

Fortunately, there is a solution to this problem. AdaptDX allows optometrists to detect the disease at least three years before it becomes clinically evident. This test is a true vision saver.

 

What Is AdaptDX?

Macular degeneration impairs the eyes’ ability to adjust from day to night vision. This is referred to as “impaired dark vision,” and it can eventually lead to blindness. AdaptDX is a dark adaptation test. This quick and painless test measures how long it takes for your vision to adjust from light to dark.
 

Your optometrist will give you a headset and you will push a button when you see a flashing light. The entire process takes about 10 minutes and the results are immediate. You’ll find out if you have AMD before you leave the office.

 

What Happens If You’re Diagnosed With Macular Degeneration?

If you’re diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, your optometrist will create a treatment plan to slow or even stop the progression. Your treatment plan will likely include supplements such as Zinc, Copper, and Vitamin E to slow the progression. You’ll also need to incorporate healthy, nutrient-rich foods into your diet. This includes fish, yellow fruits, and dark leafy greens. Along with eating healthy foods, you’ll need to exercise to keep your eyes healthy. Your optometrist will go over an exercise routine that promotes eye health.
 

Retinal protection is also a critical component of treatment. Age-related macular degeneration is aggravated by blue and ultra-violet light. Your optometrist might prescribe protective sunglasses or eyeglasses as part of your treatment.
 

Your optometrist will also continue to evaluate the disease. You should get the AdaptDX test every six months to ensure that the treatment is working. The results of the test help your optometrist determine if the treatment is working or if it needs to be changed.

 

Who Should Get Tested for AMD?

AdaptDX is so quick and easy that you can fit it into your regular vision screening. The question is, do you need to get tested for AMD? You need to get the test if you are over 50 years old or have a family history of macular degeneration. Also, if you have noticed any problems with your night vision, you should request this test.

Schedule Your Test Today

Your eyesight is worth protecting, so if you are at risk for macular degeneration, schedule a test today. Drs. Dobbins & Letourneau Eyecare is the only clinic in Lawrence, Kansas that offers this sight-saving test. Early detection is the key, so schedule your appointment by calling 785-843-5665 today. You can also schedule an appointment online.