Macular degeneration (also called age-related macular degeneration or AMO) is most commonly a natural result of aging. However, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, family history, and poor diet are known to increase the risk of developing the disease.
The most notable symptom of macular degeneration is blurry or distorted central vision, leading to difficulty reading, doing close work, or driving. Blurry words on a page, distortion of the center of a scene, a dark or empty area in the center of vision, or the distortion of lines may also be experienced. Dimming of color vision may also be a symptom.
Most patients experience early or dry AMD which causes the layers of the macula to get progressively thinner, functioning less and less as they do. In roughly 10% of cases, the disease develops into wet AMD where aging of the retina is compounded by leakage of the tiny blood vessels which nourish the retina.
There is no cure for macular degeneration. However. a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing AMD. A diet rich in green leafy vegetables and fish, supplemented with vitamins (A. C. E and beta-carotene with zinc) can significantly reduce the risk of advanced AMD.
Laser treatment and new medications can slow vision loss and in some cases, improve sight.
Research shows the presence of vascular endothelial growth factor type A (VEGF-A) stimulates the growth of blood vessels in patients with wet AMD. The presence of these new abnormal blood vessels impairs vision. Anti-VEGF-A medication regimens, including Lucentis, Macugen, and Avastin, inhibit VEGF-A, reduce new vessel growth, and can result in improved vision.
Research is providing new treatments that include implantable devices to deliver a controlled release of a prescribed drug over an extended period of time.
If you’re experiencing difficulty with central or color vision, or have other vision problems, schedule a complete eye exam today.