Macular Degeneration Care at Norman Professional Eyecare, Cape Girardeau, MO

Macular degeneration (age-related macular degeneration, AMD) distorts central vision by damaging the macula, the part of the retina responsible for clear vision. At Norman Professional Eyecare in Cape Girardeau, it's evaluated in the clinic's retinal condition management services.

It is a widespread condition and a major cause of adult blindness in people over 50. Although it may have no symptoms in its early stages, routine dilated eye exams are necessary to detect it.

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Diagnostic Exams

Eye examinations and diagnostic testing for macular degeneration include:

Comprehensive Dilated Exam: Vision is tested (acuity and refraction), and the pupil is dilated to allow a full examination of the retina and macula. The optometrist carefully inspects the macula for drusen or other AMD signs.

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This noninvasive imaging technology scans the retina and macula cross-sections, providing high-resolution, three-dimensional views of retinal layers. OCT can detect early thinning or fluid under the retina before symptoms develop.

Digital Retinal Imaging: High-resolution color photographs of the retina are taken to document the macular condition. These images are stored to monitor progression over time. Norman Eyecare uses modern retinal cameras to take detailed fundus photos.

Amsler Grid Testing: Patients are sometimes taught how to use an Amsler grid (a small black-and-white grid) to self-monitor central vision distortion between visits. New wavy or blank spots noticed on the grid are immediately reported to the physician.

If early AMD changes are noted, the doctor may suggest additional tests or images more frequently.

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Follow-Up Care

Patients diagnosed with macular degeneration need ongoing monitoring and education.

• Regular Monitoring: Follow-up eye exams depend on the AMD stage. Patients with no or early AMD return annually, while those with intermediate or progressing disease are seen every 6 to 12 months. Exams detect worsening or conversion to wet AMD. Sudden vision changes require an immediate visit.
• Home Vision Monitoring: Patients should use the Amsler grid daily. Consistent use helps identify subtle changes in central vision. Patients should call the office immediately if new distortions or dark spots appear. This "self-check" encourages patient involvement in care for timely follow-up.
• Coordinated Care: If wet (neovascular) age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is suspected, patients are quickly referred for advanced therapies. The practice manages referrals for treatments like anti-VEGF injections or photodynamic therapy as necessary.

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Management & Treatment Options

While there is no cure for AMD, Norman Professional Eyecare offers management strategies based on the latest evidence:

• Dietary Supplements: The AREDS2 Formula is recommended for patients with intermediate or dry AMD in one eye. It includes vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin to slow the progression. Doctors also recommend diet and lifestyle changes to help maintain macular health, such as quitting smoking and controlling blood pressure.
• Referral for Advanced Therapies: If wet AMD develops, specialized treatment is required. Retina surgeons provide FDA-approved therapies, such as anti-VEGF eye injections, monthly or as needed. Patients will be regularly monitored by their optometrist to address any peripheral or bilateral changes.
• Vision Aids and Rehabilitation: The practice provides referrals for low-vision rehabilitation in cases of advanced AMD. Dr. Norman can recommend optical aids (magnifiers, telescopic lenses) and vision therapy strategies to help maximize remaining vision.

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Technology & Features

Norman Professional Eyecare uses cutting-edge technology for AMD care:

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): At each exam, a high-resolution OCT scanner is used to image the macula. This allows early detection of fluid, bleeding, or retinal thickening.
• Digital Retinal Imaging: The office has a digital fundus camera and imaging system. This provides detailed color photos of the retina ("retinal imaging") stored in the patient's record for comparison over time.
• Advanced Vision Testing: The clinic uses modern visual field and contrast sensitivity testing when needed to assess macular function more precisely. Specialized charting systems quantify subtle vision changes.

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Meet the Expert

Dr. Brian K. Norman, OD, FAAO

Founder and lead optometrist at Norman Professional Eyecare. He has more than 17 years of experience. He is licensed, board-certified, and knowledgeable about the most current eye care treatments.

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Insurance & Payment Options

Norman Professional Eyecare accepts most vision and medical insurance plans. Accepted coverage includes:

• Vision Plans: VSP (Vision Service Plan) in-network, and other major vision insurance providers.
• Medical Plans: Major insurance carriers such as Aetna, Cigna, and Medicare. (Many other plans are also accepted; please verify with our staff.)
• Payment: All major credit cards for co-pays and services. Glasses and contact purchases can typically be covered by insurance allowances or Flex/FSA accounts.
• Financing: Norman Professional Eyecare participates in CareCredit financing for out-of-pocket expenses.

Our staff can file claims electronically for you and will help explain any benefits. For uninsured services, we offer competitive self-pay rates and payment plans.

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Schedule Your Exam

Early detection is key. Contact us today to ensure the best possible care for your vision. To schedule a Macular Degeneration evaluation or regular eye exam, call us or visit drnormaneyecare.com.

Office hours are Monday through Friday (varied hours) by appointment.