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Macular Degeneration (AMD)
What is Age-related Macular Degeneration?
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a disease
associated with aging that gradually destroys sharp, central vision.
Central vision is needed for seeing objects clearly and for common daily
tasks such as reading and driving.
AMD
affects the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine detail.
AMD causes no pain.
In some cases, AMD advances so slowly that people
notice little change in their vision. In others, the disease progresses
faster and may lead to a loss of vision in both eyes. AMD is a leading
cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older.
AMD occurs
in two forms: wet and dry.
Where is the Macula?
The macula is located in the center of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. The retina instantly converts light, or an image, into electrical impulses. The retina then sends these impulses, or nerve signals, to the brain.
What
is Wet Macular Degeneration?
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula. These new blood vessels tend to be very fragile and often leak blood and fluid. The blood and fluid raise the macula from its normal place at the back of the eye. Damage to the macula occurs rapidly.
An early symptom of wet AMD is that straight lines appear wavy. If you notice this condition or other changes to your vision, contact your eye care professional at once. You need a comprehensive dilated eye exam.
Wet Macular Degeneration can lead to severe permanent vision loss. Prompt evaluation and treatment are critical for wet macular degeneration.
What treatment is available for Wet Macular Degeneration?
For many years laser therapy was the only treatment option for wet AMD.
The Macula Center of North Carolina currently offers new treatment options including the drugs Lucentis® and Avastin® for wet macular degeneration. State-of-the-art testing is available to assist in effective management and treatment of wet macular degeneration.
What is Dry Macular Degeneration?
Dry AMD is often referred to as the "good type" of macular degeneration because it is often milder and tends to advance more slowly. Despite these facts, dry AMD can still lead to significant vision loss. Patients with dry AMD are at risk for developing the more serious wet (bleeding) form of macular degeneration.
Who gets Macular Degeneration?
Many factors influence including heredity, age, nutrition, blood pressure, cholesterol level and smoking. Studies have shown that people with light colored eyes (blue for example) are more prone to develop Macular Degeneration. Excessive sun exposure may also be a factor in macular degeneration.
What treatment is available for Dry Macular Degeneration?
Good nutrition, including vitamin supplements, definitely slows down the progression of dry AMD. Careful retinal examination and daily monitoring with an Amsler Grid chart can assist in monitoring dry AMD. All patients with dry AMD should focus on good health habits, exercise, blood pressure control, stopping smoking and good nutrition.
Ref: National Eye Institute 2007
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