Macular Degeneration: An Overview

Macular degeneration is a condition that deteriorates vision. It is the leading cause of blindness for Americans 65 and older.

When the macula deteriorates, central vision loss can occur. The macula is part of the retina; it allows you to have sharp central vision for driving or reading. The condition is often age related.  

Macular degeneration comes in two types: wet and dry. The dry version occurs when new blood vessels do not develop near the macula. The wet version occurs when these vessels do appear.

Dry macular degeneration is caused by one or both of two things. Pigment may be deposited in the macula, or the macular tissues may be thinning and aging. Diagnosis occurs when drusen (yellowish spots) begin to show. These spots can be caused by debris from weakening tissue or deposits. There is no treatment for dry macular degeneration currently approved by the FDA. Studies suggest vitamins A, C and E may help.

Wet macular degeneration is more advanced. Underneath the retina, new blood vessels develop and leak. This leakage is concerning to patients because it causes permanent damage which can lead to blind spots in one's vision.

Risk factors for developing this condition include age, race (it is most common in Caucasians), high blood pressure, smoking, vascular disease, high cholesterol, farsightedness, family history, and even exposure to sun.

There are three strong indicators that you may have a problem. Seeing straight lines or things in the center of your vision as distorted is one of these signs. In the center of vision, white out or dark blurry spots may occur. Your color perception could also change or diminish.

Consuming vitamins C and E, as well as zinc, copper and beta-carotene can curb the risk of vision loss. Laser therapy can be used to get rid of abnormal blood vessels that are still growing. Photodynamic laser therapy may also be used. A light sensitive drug is injected into the eye; then a laser is used.