Macular degeneration, often referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. Many people assume that if they don’t notice vision problems, their eyes are healthy. However, the reality is that macular degeneration can be present without noticeable symptoms.
 

Early Stages of Macular Degeneration Often Go Unnoticed

During the early phases of macular degeneration, vision may remain clear. The condition can progress silently, with changes occurring at the cellular level in the retina long before you experience vision distortion, blind spots, or difficulty reading. Because these changes are painless and gradual, many patients don’t realize anything is wrong until the disease has advanced.
 

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial

The best defense against vision loss from macular degeneration is early detection. Even if you don’t have symptoms, comprehensive eye exams can reveal early warning signs. At Alamo Eye Care, we use advanced technology, including retinal imaging and retinal exams, to carefully examine the health of the macula and detect subtle changes that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
 

Even if your vision seems perfectly fine, annual eye exams are crucial for protecting your long-term eye health. For patients over 50 or those with risk factors such as a family history of AMD, smoking, or high blood pressure, routine visits are even more important. Early detection gives you the best chance to maintain your vision and quality of life.
 

Retinal Exams Provide Critical Insight

A retinal exam allows your eye doctor to see beneath the surface of your eye, identifying early deposits of drusen (tiny yellow spots) or changes in the macula. These findings can signal the earliest stages of AMD - well before symptoms begin. By catching the condition early, we can monitor your eye health closely and recommend lifestyle adjustments, supplements, or treatment strategies to slow progression.
 

Early Detection Starts Here

Yes, you can have macular degeneration without symptoms. That’s why waiting until vision problems occur could put your sight at risk. Through annual eye exams and detailed retinal evaluations, we help patients detect and manage AMD early, protecting their vision for the future.
 

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Alamo Eye Care to stay ahead of macular degeneration. Contact our office in San Antonio or Austin, Texas, by calling (210) 403-9050 to book an appointment today.