Macular Degeneration is a chronic and progressive eye disorder that primarily affects people who are 60 years old or older. In this condition, a part of the eye called the macula becomes damaged. The macula is the area that is at the center of the retina. This light-sensitive tissue lines the back of the eye and is highly pigmented. The role of the macula is to make the center of our vision clear and sharp.

Central vision is essential for tasks that require detailed vision such as reading, driving, recognizing faces, and seeing fine details. With macular degeneration, the center of the vision is affected while the peripheral vision, or side vision, remains unaffected. There are two main types of macular degeneration, wet and dry macular degeneration.

Dry Macular Degeneration

Most people who have this condition have dry macular degeneration. This form of the condition comes on much more gradually as the macula thins over time. Eventually, this leads to blurred or reduced central vision.

Wet Macular Degeneration

Wet macular degeneration is far more severe and can impact vision much more quickly. This type of condition happens when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina, leaking blood and fluid and causing rapid damage and vision loss. However, there are treatments that can effectively resolve wet AMD

Know the Macular Degeneration Symptoms

If you have dry macular degeneration, symptoms will progress slowly and may not even be noticeable at first. However, early diagnosis is important for the treatment of this condition, so you should always call your doctor when any changes occur in your vision. Common symptoms include:

• Blurred or distorted vision: Blurred or distorted vision, especially when it occurs in the center of your vision, is a common symptom. Straight lines that you try to focus on may appear wavy or distorted and print may seem blurry.
• Difficulty reading or seeing faces: If you need more light to read or have a hard time recognizing faces until the person is close, you may have macular degeneration.
• Blackout in the center of your vision: If there is a dark or empty area in the middle of your vision that gradually enlarges over time, this could also be a symptom of AMD.

What Are the Causes of Macular Degeneration?

The exact macular degeneration causes remain unknown. However, it is thought to be a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. Several risk factors for the condition have been identified, with age being the primary risk factor.

Others exist such as smoking, a higher BMI, diets that are high in unhealthy fats and low in omega 3 and 6, deficiency in other vitamins and minerals, and a family history of AMD. Also, if you have already developed macular degeneration in one eye, you are more likely to develop it in the other eye, too.

Macular Degeneration Treatment Plans

When it comes to dry macular degeneration, there are three stages of progression: early, intermediate, and late. The best way to care for your eyes at any stage is to have regular checkups with your doctor for early detection. Once signs have been detected, preventative measures can be put in place. Some of these measures include:

• Nutritional supplements: Certain supplements can be helpful for slowing the progression of dry macular degeneration. These supplements can include antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E along with zinc, copper, lutein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Lifestyle changes: If you smoke, quitting can be a good way to protect your eyes from progressing further into the disorder. Other lifestyle changes such as changing your diet or increasing your exercise can help.
• Vision aids: Using devices such as magnifying glasses or prescription eyewear can help you to make the most of your vision and to resume some of your daily activities.

Wet macular degeneration treatments offer more targeted solutions for the condition. Treatments can include:

• Medications: Certain medications can reduce the growth of new blood vessels in the retina, which can slow the leakage of blood and fluid in the eye. These medications are injected into the eye and can offer effective results.
• Photodynamic Therapy: During this type of treatment, a light-sensitive medication is injected into the bloodstream where it is eventually absorbed by the abnormal blood vessels in the retina. Next, a physician shines a light into the affected eye, which activates the drug. This destroys the abnormal blood vessels and helps to slow the rate of vision loss from wet AMD.
  

  Resolve Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

  As you age, you should have your eyes checked every year as well as any time changes in vision occur. If you are beginning to see changes in the center of your vision and are concerned that you may be developing macular degeneration, the next step is to schedule an appointment. At Palm Beach Eye Clinic in West Palm Beach, FL, we will meet with you to discuss all of your macular degeneration treatment options. Fill out an online form for more information or call us at (561) 832-6113.