Understanding Your Vision
Macular degeneration is a gradual deterioration of the retina that can lead to vision impairment over time.
Because changes may be subtle in the early stages, understanding the condition and having regular eye examinations can help identify problems before they have a greater impact on your vision.
About the Condition
Macular degeneration is a gradual degradation of the retina that over time can lead to vision impairment.
The retina is the lining at the very back of your eye. It is responsible for processing the light that enters your eye and turning it into an image your brain can understand.
The macula is the central portion of the retina. It primarily processes the center part of your vision and is the portion affected by macular degeneration.
As the condition develops, you may slowly begin to lose the center of your vision. This can range from blurriness to large dark spots that interfere significantly with what you see.
Macular degeneration most often develops with age. While the exact cause is still unknown, the macula can gradually deteriorate as we get older, making macular degeneration more common in people over 50.
Risk Factors
Several factors may contribute to developing macular degeneration or worsening its symptoms, including:
Regular eye exams become increasingly important as you get older, helping identify changes before vision is permanently affected.
Two Forms
Macular degeneration is divided into two primary types: atrophic, or “dry,” and exudative, or “wet,” macular degeneration.
Atrophic
This is the more common type and is most associated with aging and the gradual degradation of the retina.
Changes generally occur gradually over time, which is why routine monitoring can be important.
Exudative
This is a less common type in which blood vessels develop just underneath the retina. These additional blood vessels are prone to leaking blood or fluid and can cause bulging against the macula.
This can create a greater and more immediate impact on your vision. Wet macular degeneration can also develop from dry degeneration.
If you notice sudden changes in your vision, it is important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible.
Know the Signs
Macular degeneration can differ from person to person. In the early stages, changes may be difficult to notice.
Speak with an eye doctor if you notice changes in your vision, particularly if they begin to worsen.
Having one of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have macular degeneration. However, it is still important to see an eye doctor if you begin to notice these changes, particularly if symptoms worsen rapidly.
Preserving Your Vision
There is currently no complete cure for macular degeneration. Available treatments generally focus on slowing progression and preserving vision for as long as possible. Treatment differs depending on whether you have dry or wet macular degeneration.
Dry AMD
Dry macular degeneration has more limited treatment options because it is largely associated with natural aging.
The typically recommended approach may include diet and nutritional supplements. Vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, lutein and zinc may be recommended as part of an eye-health plan.
Adding foods such as fish, leafy greens and fruits to your diet can also provide antioxidants and vitamins that support overall eye health.
Your eye doctor can help determine what approach is appropriate for your individual condition.
Wet AMD
Wet macular degeneration has additional treatment options that specifically target the abnormal growth of blood vessels underneath the retina.
Medications and injections may be used to limit the growth of these blood vessels, reducing strain on the retina and helping preserve vision.
Laser treatments may also be appropriate in some situations. These can include photodynamic therapy, which combines medication and laser treatment, as well as laser photocoagulation.
Depending on your condition, you may be referred to a retina specialist for treatment.
While there is currently no complete cure for macular degeneration, early detection provides the best opportunity to monitor changes and preserve your vision for as long as possible.
If you are concerned about changes in your vision or have a family history of macular degeneration, regular eye examinations are especially important. If signs of macular degeneration are found, you may be referred to a retina specialist for additional care.
