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March 20, 2026
When you begin to notice changes in your eyesight and have concerns, our goal at OOMC Eye Care is early, accurate diagnosis so you can access treatments that preserve sight and quality of life, especially when macular degeneration is involved.
How is macular degeneration diagnosed? What are some standard tests and treatments? We’ll explain what to expect during testing, the treatments commonly used for dry and wet forms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and how to start with us.
Diagnosing macular degeneration begins with a detailed eye exam and imaging to visualize the macula (the central retina).
Standard tests include visual acuity checks, the Amsler grid for home monitoring of distortion, dilated fundus exam, optical coherence tomography (OCT) to image retinal layers, and fluorescein angiography when active leaking or new blood vessels are suspected.
These tests let eye doctors distinguish dry (non-neovascular) from wet (neovascular) AMD and stage disease severity. Early diagnosis matters because many effective treatments for wet AMD and preventive strategies for dry AMD rely on timely detection.
Our macular workup starts with your history and symptom review, followed by visual acuity and dilated retinal exam. We use high-resolution OCT and retinal photography to track drusen, retinal thinning, fluid, and key signs of dry and wet AMD.
If imaging suggests choroidal neovascularization (new blood vessels), we may perform fluorescein angiography to confirm leakage and plan treatment. Our process emphasizes clear explanations, personalized monitoring intervals, and shared decision-making.
Above all, your evaluation begins with a conversation. We listen to your symptoms, review your health and family history, and discuss any vision changes you’ve noticed. From there, we perform a thorough retinal exam and use state-of-the-art imaging to capture the most minor macula changes to care for your vision.
Adults over 50, people with a family history of macular degeneration, current or former smokers, and anyone noticing wavy lines, dark spots, or difficulty reading should schedule macular degeneration tests and treatment exams, so utilize standard tests such as:
Amsler grid for daily self-checks and clinic-based OCT imaging for detailed retinal maps.
OCT, fundus photography, and angiography (fluorescein or indocyanine green) to confirm active disease.
For wet AMD, anti-VEGF injections (medicines injected into the eye) reduce abnormal vessel growth and fluid and are the standard of care. For certain dry AMD patients, AREDS2-formulated vitamin supplements can slow progression. Photodynamic therapy or laser may be appropriate in select cases.
We pair retina-focused technology with compassionate, local care. Our retina specialists interpret OCT and angiography quickly and recommend evidence-based treatments—like anti-VEGF injections—within an individualized plan. We also provide low-vision resources, nutritional counseling, and smoking-cessation support to reduce risk and improve long-term results.
Learn about how macular degeneration is diagnosed and the standard tests and treatments you can pursue at OOMC Eye Care. When you’ve spotted changes in your vision, request an appointment, schedule a consultation, or schedule an appointment online. Early evaluation can make a real difference, so find reliable support with our team.
