Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that affects the cells in the back part of your eye, which allows you to visualize objects that are straight ahead. Over time it damages your capacity for sharp, central vision. With macular degeneration, it becomes increasingly more difficult to perform daily tasks such as reading or writing as well as recognizing faces or colors. Among the early signs of vision loss from macular degeneration, are shadowy areas in your central vision and unusually fuzzy or distorted vision. While individuals with advanced cases of macular degeneration are considered legally blind as the result of a profound loss of central vision, their peripheral vision, which is less clear than central vision, is retained. Most people do not experience vision loss in the early stage of age-related macular degeneration and the progression can be slow and painless.
An eye doctor can often detect early signs of macular degeneration before any symptoms are experienced. If signs of the condition are found, additional tests to verify the diagnosis may be ordered. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, treatment to manage the condition and to slow the progression will be prescribed.
According to the National Eye Institute, over two million adults in the United States have age-related macular degeneration with that number expected to double within the next thirty years. While one defense against age-related vision loss is a nutritious diet and a healthy lifestyle, regular comprehensive eye exams are essential in order to protect the health of your eyes and the quality of your vision.
Macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. The macula allows us to see fine details clearly and perform tasks such as reading and driving.
The disease typically progresses slowly over time and can lead to blurred or distorted central vision, and in some cases, severe vision loss. There are two main forms of macular degeneration: dry (atrophic) AMD and wet (neovascular) AMD.
While the exact cause of macular degeneration is not known, several factors are thought to contribute to its development. These include:
- Age: Macular degeneration is an age-related condition that becomes more common as people get older.
- Genetics: Certain genes have been linked to an increased risk of developing AMD.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing AMD and can speed up its progression.
- High blood pressure: People with high blood pressure are at a higher risk of developing AMD.
- Lifestyle factors: A diet low in certain nutrients, lack of physical activity, and obesity have also been linked to an increased risk of AMD.
The following factors increase your risk of developing macular degeneration:
- Age: The risk increases as you get older, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 50.
- Genetics: Having a family history of AMD or certain genes can increase your risk.
- Smoking: Smokers have a higher risk than nonsmokers.
- High blood pressure: People with high blood pressure are at an increased risk.
- Lifestyle factors: A diet low in fruits and vegetables, lack of physical activity, and obesity can increase your risk.
- Gender: Women tend to be at a higher risk than men.
The early stages of macular degeneration may not have any symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may experience:
- Blurred vision or a blurred spot in your central vision
- Distorted vision (straight lines may appear wavy or crooked)
- Dark spots or empty areas in your field of vision
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to schedule an appointment with one of our optometrists at Vision World of Copiague as soon as possible.
Macular degeneration can be detected during a comprehensive eye exam at Vision World of Copiague. Our experienced optometrists will perform the following tests:
- A dilated eye exam to examine your retina and macula
- Visual acuity test to measure your central vision
- Fundus photography or optical coherence tomography (OCT) to create detailed images of your retina and macula
- Fluorescein angiography, if necessary, to assess blood flow in the retina
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent macular degeneration, several lifestyle changes may help reduce your risk or slow its progression:
- A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables: Foods high in lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins C, E, and D can support eye health.
- Regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, along with strength training exercises on two or more days a week.
- Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting can help reduce your risk of developing AMD and slow its progression.
- Regular eye exams: Regular check-ups at Vision World of Copiague can help detect any changes in your vision or the health of your eyes early on.
Dry AMD typically progresses slowly, and there is currently no cure for it. However, several treatments may help slow its progression or improve vision:
- AREDS2 formula vitamins: Our optometrists may recommend taking a specific vitamin supplement to support eye health and potentially slow the progression of dry AMD.
- Low vision aids: We can provide devices such as magnifiers, telescopic lenses, or eSight electronic glasses to help improve your vision and quality of life.
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak fluid or blood. This can cause rapid and severe vision loss if not treated promptly. Our optometrists at Vision World of Copiague may recommend the following treatments:
- Anti-VEGF injections: These medications, such as Lucentis, Eylea, or Avastin, are injected into the eye to block the growth of new blood vessels and reduce leakage.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): In this procedure, a light-sensitive drug is injected into the bloodstream, followed by laser treatment to destroy abnormal blood vessels.
- Laser surgery: This may be an option for some people with wet AMD. It involves using a laser to seal leaking blood vessels or destroy abnormal ones.
Living with low vision due to macular degeneration can be challenging, but there are many resources and strategies available to help you maintain your independence and quality of life:
- Adapt your home: Make changes such as increasing lighting, removing tripping hazards, and using contrasting colors to make it easier to navigate your space.
- Use low vision aids: As mentioned earlier, devices like magnifiers, telescopic lenses, or eSight electronic glasses can help improve your vision.
- Learn new skills: Consider learning to use a white cane, organizing your belongings in new ways, or mastering technologies that can assist with daily tasks.
- Seek support: Reach out to local support groups for people with low vision, or connect with organizations like the American Macular Degeneration Foundation for resources and information.
Early detection is crucial in managing macular degeneration because it allows our optometrists at Vision World of Copiague to monitor the progression of the disease, recommend appropriate treatments, and provide personalized care. Some benefits of early detection include:
- Prompt treatment: Early diagnosis enables us to start treatments like anti-VEGF injections or PDT as soon as possible, which can help preserve your vision.
- Regular monitoring: Regular eye exams allow us to track changes in your vision and adjust your care plan accordingly.
- Access to clinical trials: If you're eligible, participating in clinical trials may provide access to new treatments or therapies for macular degeneration.
