Stargardt’s Syndrome
Overview & Our Approach to Stargardt’s Syndrome
Stargardt’s Syndrome, also known as juvenile macular degeneration, is an inherited eye condition that typically manifests in childhood or adolescence. It is the most common form of inherited macular degeneration and leads to progressive vision loss, primarily affecting the central vision necessary for tasks like reading, recognizing faces, and driving. The condition is caused by mutations in the ABCA4 gene, which result in the accumulation of toxic byproducts in the retina, leading to the degeneration of photoreceptor cells.
While Stargardt’s Syndrome does not usually cause complete blindness, it significantly impacts the quality of life by impairing central vision. Patients may experience difficulty in activities that require fine visual detail, but peripheral vision generally remains intact.
Our approach to managing Stargardt’s Syndrome focuses on slowing the progression of the disease, preserving as much vision as possible, and improving the patient’s quality of life:
- Reducing Oxidative Stress: We use a combination of targeted supplements, antioxidants, and therapies to combat oxidative stress, which plays a crucial role in the degeneration of retinal cells in Stargardt’s Syndrome.
- Protecting Photoreceptor Cells: Our treatments aim to protect the remaining photoreceptor cells from further damage, helping to maintain visual function for as long as possible.
- Telehealth & In-Office Treatments: We offer personalized care through both telehealth consultations and in-office visits at our New Jersey location. This approach ensures that each patient receives the most effective treatments tailored to their condition.
- At-Home Care with ACS3000: For continuous management, we provide the ACS3000 system, which supports retinal health and helps reduce the progression of vision loss in patients with Stargardt’s Syndrome.
- Targeted Supplements: Our specially formulated supplements are designed to support retinal health, reduce the accumulation of toxic byproducts, and protect against further cellular damage.
Symptoms & Causes of Stargardt’s Syndrome
Stargardt’s Syndrome Overview:
- Central Vision Loss: Stargardt’s Syndrome primarily affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. As the disease progresses, patients typically notice a gradual loss of central vision, which can make activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces increasingly difficult.
- Slow Onset: The onset of symptoms usually occurs in childhood or adolescence, but in some cases, it may not become apparent until adulthood. The progression of vision loss can vary, with some patients experiencing rapid decline, while others have a slower progression.
- Difficulty in Low Light: Patients with Stargardt’s Syndrome often have difficulty seeing in low light conditions or adjusting to changes in lighting, such as moving from a brightly lit environment to a dimly lit one.
- Color Vision Impairment: As the disease progresses, color vision may also be affected, leading to challenges in distinguishing between different colors.
Causes of Stargardt’s Syndrome:
- Genetic Mutations: Stargardt’s Syndrome is caused by mutations in the ABCA4 gene. This gene is responsible for the production of a protein that helps remove toxic byproducts from the photoreceptor cells in the retina. Mutations in the ABCA4 gene lead to the buildup of these toxic substances, causing the degeneration of photoreceptor cells and resulting in vision loss.
- Accumulation of Lipofuscin: One of the key features of Stargardt’s Syndrome is the accumulation of lipofuscin, a fatty substance that forms as a byproduct of the visual cycle. Lipofuscin builds up in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and interferes with the normal functioning of the retina, leading to the death of photoreceptor cells.
- Oxidative Stress: The accumulation of toxic byproducts in the retina also leads to increased oxidative stress, which further damages the retinal cells. This oxidative stress contributes to the progression of the disease and the gradual loss of vision.
Telehealth and Intensive In-Office Stargardt’s Syndrome Treatment
Start Your Journey with a Telehealth Consultation and Experience the Fastest Results with Our Comprehensive In-Office Care
If you’re seeking the most effective treatment for Stargardt’s Syndrome, our intensive in-office appointments offer the fastest results. Many of our patients choose to visit our New Jersey office for this reason. During these intensive appointments, you’ll undergo a series of advanced treatments tailored to your specific needs over several days, ensuring comprehensive and effective care.
We recommend starting with a telehealth visit, where we can assess your condition, discuss your symptoms, and determine the best course of action. This initial consultation will help us create a personalized treatment plan for your in-office visit.
To take the first step toward better eye health and fast, effective treatment:
At-Home Stargardt’s Syndrome Treatment with the ACS-3000
Discover the At-Home Frequency Specific Alternating Current Micro Stimulation System
Yes, you can achieve vision recovery from the comfort of your home! Introducing the all-new ACS-3000 at-home vision recovery system. This advanced technology utilizes Frequency Specific Alternating Current Micro Stimulation to support eye health and improve vision.
The ACS-3000 system is designed for convenience and effectiveness, allowing you to benefit from cutting-edge treatments without leaving your home. It’s an excellent option for those seeking ongoing care and maintenance for Stargardt’s Syndrome.
Experience the benefits of the ACS-3000 and see what you’ve been missing. Learn more about how this innovative system can help you!
Shop Stargardt’s Syndrome Supplements
Our team works to create or find the best supportive eye supplements that will give you the greatest effect.
Total Vision MA48
This comprehensive nutritional formula provides the nutrients specifically related to target and support of general eye health and vision.
Hydro Vision – H2 Vision
Specially formulated to produce 10+ ppm of molecular hydrogen in a single glass of water. (That’s nearly 100 million times more hydrogen than a normal glass of water).
LipoVision-DHA
Nutritional support targeting cardiovascular health, brain eye and skin health and helps control neuro-vascular of inflammation and overall neuroprotection.
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