MACULAR DEGENERATION is a disease characterized by loss of central vision from deterioration of the central retina (macula), which usually starts after the age of 55. The exact cause is not known. However genetics, UV exposure, and smoking are known risk factors. It is the leading cause of vision loss among patients 65 and older.
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Patients may develop drusen, which show up as small, yellow, flecks in the macula. These patients may experience blurred vision if these drusen degenerate further and turn into macular degeneration. This blurred vision is due to retinal cell atrophy and is termed Dry Macular Degeneration. New blood vessels may grow underneath the retina, which can bleed and scar. This is called Wet Macular Degeneration.
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| Dr. Streiff checking for macular degeneration |
TWO TYPE'S:
A. DRY FORM:
- Usually less severe
- Slower progression (years)
- The first sign may be the formation of small yellow flecks called drusen (SEE PIC).
- No actual treatment. Special eye vitamins have shown to slow progression.
- Both office and home monitoring. Want to prevent from developing into the “wet form”
- Can prescribe special magnifiers to aid vision.
Normal eye. Note darker colored spot to the right of the lighter circle (optic nerve), which is the macula. It is darker because there is a second source of bloodflow.
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Early Dry Macular Degeneration. View from eye doctor's perspective. Note yellow flecks over macula.
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Advanced Dry Macular Degeneration (photo taken at Skowron Eyecare)
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B. WET FORM:
- Usually more severe due to bleeding (hence the word “wet”).
- Faster progression.
- TREATMENT is available with laser, or eye injections. Better outcome if caught early.
- Needs to be closely monitored both in the office and at home (with a special chart)
- Can also prescribe special magnifiers to help vision.
“Wet” Macular Degeneration. Notice the hemorrhage or bleeding over the macula.
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SIGNS OF MACULAR DEGENERATION:
- Blurred vision.
- Distorted or “wavy”vision.
- Noticeable blind spot in one's vision, usually central (PICTURE)
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| Patients are given this chart to self monitor at home by ensuring that all the lines remain straight. If they present to be bending or distorted, this could indicate progression of macular degeneration. |
Recommendations to minimize the development or progression of Macular Degeneration:
- Patients 55 and older should be examined for signs of AMD yearly.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- If signs of AMD are present, a combination of antioxidant vitamins and zinc may be helpful. Consult with your doctor which is right for you. Smokers should not take supplements of beta carotine as this can increase the risk of lung cancer.
- Stop smoking (definite link between smoking and Macular Degeneration)
- If outdoors a lot, wear a hat with a brim to keep off direct sunlight, and wear sunglasses with UV protection.
- Patient is often given an “Amsler Grid” (PICTURE) for self monitoring at home.
More details, click here.
