MACULAR DEGENERATION

Symptoms

• Usually slow, occasionally sudden, painless loss of vision
• Fuzzy, distorted, or shadowy areas in central vision
• Often there are no symptoms in the early stage of the disease

Frequently Asked Questions

What is macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a deterioration of the macula, a small area at the back of the retina, resulting in a loss of sharp central vision. The loss of central vision affects reading, driving, the ability to see colors and faces, and any other task that requires focusing on small objects. Macular degeneration is diagnosed as either the dry or wet type.

Is macular degeneration a serious eye disease?
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of decreased vision in Americans over the age of 65.

What is dry macular degeneration?
As the eye ages the tissue under the retina may degenerate. Yellowish spots known as drusen develop from deteriorating tissue under the macula. These changes are called dry, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). A majority (90%) of patients with ARMD have the dry type and maintain good vision. There is no known treatment for this type of ARMD, but good nutrition appears to be very important.

What is wet macular degeneration?
Wet macular degeneration results when new blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak blood and fluid causing permanent damage to retinal cells and creating blind spots in central vision.

What are risk factors for age-related macular degeneration?

• Age
• Smoking, second hand smoke
• Hypertension
• Obesity
• Lack of Exercise
• Heredity
• Hyperlipidemia
• High dietary fat intake
• Poor Nutrition

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?
It is usually diagnosed during a routine eye exam. All individuals over the age of 55 should have a dilated eye exam to check for any sign of ARMD.

What are the treatments for dry macular degeneration?
There is no treatment for dry macular degeneration, however, Drs. Agnone and Morrison may suggest vitamin therapy in certain cases. Good nutrition and diets with dark leafy greens, fruits, oily fish, fish oil, and nuts may help protect against the disease.

What are the treatments for wet macular degeneration?
There are several treatment options for wet macular degeneration including laser treatment, injections of Avastin or Lucentis, photodynamic therapy, and surgery. Special tests that identify the position and extent of blood vessel growth will help determine the best treatment option for your condition.