Macular Degeneration
What is it?
Macular degeneration is a group of diseases that affect this area of the retina. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness of severe and irreversible vision loss in the developed world.
Where does it strike?
The retina is a thin tissue that lines the inside wall of the eye. The macula is a geographic area within the retina that is responsible for sharp central vision. In 10-15% of cases, bleeding can occur into the retina, which results in scarring and central vision loss.
Risk Factors
- People over 50 years of age (prevalence increases with age)
- Family history
- Ultraviolet light exposure
- Smoking
- Poor diet or lack of particular nutrients
Treatment and Management
- Have your eyes examined by an optometrist every year
- Photodynamic therapy
- Magnification aids
- Dietary supplements
- Downloadable Amsler grid
Prevention and Detection
- Good diet including leafy dark green vegetables
- Do not smoke
- Annual eye examinations
Your optometrist may give you a grid pattern for regular home monitoring, to detect any distortions or dim areas in your vision at the earliest opportunity. Special dietary supplements may be recommended, to slow the progression of macular degeneration
