Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration occurs when there are changes to the macula, the small portion of the retina located on the inside back layer of the eye. Macular degeneration can result in a loss of central vision and may occur in two-forms.
The most common risk factors associated with macular degeneration include genetics, a history of smoking, poor diet, a light complexion, excessive sun exposure and most recently, evidence related to the visible blue light emitted from electronic devices such as smart phones, computers, tablets and energy efficient LED light bulbs.
The most common risk factors associated with macular degeneration include genetics, a history of smoking, poor diet, a light complexion, excessive sun exposure and most recently, evidence related to the visible blue light emitted from electronic devices such as smart phones, computers, tablets and energy efficient LED light bulbs.
Who is at Risk? What are the Symptoms?
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over age 50. The CDC estimates that 1.8 million people have AMD and another 7.3 million are at substantial risk. Caucasians are at higher risk for developing AMD than other races. Women also develop AMD at an earlier age than men. Some common symptoms are: a gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly, distorted vision, a gradual loss of color vision, and a dark or empty area appearing in the center of vision. If you experience any of these, contact our office immediately.
“DRY” MACULAR DEGENERATION
“Dry” macular degeneration accounts for about 90% of all cases of AMD. There is no cure for dry AMD, and any loss in central vision cannot be restored. However, we now believe there may be a link between nutrition and the progression of dry AMD. Dietary changes favoring low-fat content and dark green leafy vegetables may slow vision loss.
“WET” MACULAR DEGENERATION
“Wet” macular degeneration results when fluids leak from newly formed blood vessels under the macula and blur the central vision. Vision loss can be rapid and severe. If detected early, “wet” AMD can be treated with laser treatment, special dyes and medications injection into the eye. These treatments are not permanent cures but are used to slow the rate of central vision loss.
While there is currently no cure for age-related macular degeneration, some treatments may delay its progression or even improve vision.