Macular Degeneration

Untreated macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of blindness in those over 65.

While researchers have not yet discovered a cure for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), there are treatment options which halt the progression of the disease to blindness. In some cases, treatment can even lead to improved vision. It is essential to have an open discussion with your eye doctor about the risks and limitations of AMD treatments.

Types Of Macular Degeneration

There are 2 basic types of AMD, dry and wet forms.

Dry Macular Degeneration

Dry Macular Degeneration is considered the less aggressive form of AMD. It typically progresses much more slowly, and the level of eyesight damage is less severe. Treating Dry AMD often involves AREDS 2 antioxidants, which have been clinically shown to slow disease progression. Dry AMD is detected during routine eye exams, which is why it is crucial to have yearly testing that includes OCT tomography and optomap for monitoring retinal changes.

Wet Macular Degeneration

Wet Macular Degeneration is the more severe form of AMD. It is a chronic eye disorder that initially causes blurred vision or a blind spot in the visual field. It occurs when abnormal blood vessel growth—angiogenesis—leads to fluid leaks or bleeding inside the retinal layers. When this process starts, blindness can occur if treatment is not initiated. Treatments include an AMD medication injected directly into the eye to inhibit angiogenesis.

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Statistics

Currently, macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in persons over the age of 60. Caucasians are far more likely to lose vision from AMD, and studies show that obesity, smoking, and exposure to UV rays may also be risk factors for developing the disease. Having a family history of macular degeneration increases your risk for developing the condition. Nearly 90% of all diagnosed AMD is the dry form.

Symptoms

For dry AMD, symptoms develop gradually and without discomfort. Wet AMD often appears suddenly, and the eye will worsen rapidly. Earmarks of AMD include the presence of drusen detectable by your doctor during a comprehensive eye exam. Early symptoms include blurry, cloudy or distorted vision or dark spots in your central field of view. With advanced stages, vision loss can be severe with larger blind spots or even the total loss of central vision.

Treatment

There are no FDA-approved treatments for dry macular degeneration although Amsler grid home evaluations and AREDS 2 antioxidants may be utilized in detecting and preventing its progression to the more advanced, wet form. For wet macular degeneration, there are several FDA-approved drugs aimed at stopping abnormal blood vessel growth and vision loss from the disease. In some cases, laser treatment of the retina may be recommended.