Age Related Macular Degeneration
Age Related Macular Degeneration is a devastating condition that affects millions of adults. This disease affects the retina which is the “seeing film” of the eye. The area of the retina with the highest sensitivity that aids in central vision is called the Macula. In Macular Degeneration, the macula becomes damaged progressively. This can lead to a severe loss of central vision. The peripheral vision is not affected in Macular degeneration. There are two main types of Macular degenerations, Wet Type and Dry Type.
Dry Macular Degeneration
This is the more common form of macular degeneration. In Dry Macular degeneration, the macular area becomes damaged progressively. This is a slow process. The macula becomes become thin or atrophic. This leads to central vision loss.
Wet Macular Degeneration
The wet macular degeneration is less common but can lead to severe vision loss rapidly. In this form of Macular degeneration, abnormal blood vessels develop under the retina. These can hemorrhage and leak fluid causing scarring in the Macula.
Who Is At Risk
The following are risk factors for Macular Degeneration
- Age over 50
- Smoking including second hand smoke
- Diet rich in saturated fats (butter, cheese, Meats)
- Family History of Macular Degeneration
- Have high blood pressure
- Overweight Patients
How Is Macular Degeneration Diagnosed?
Macular Degeneration does not cause any symptoms until vision loss occurs. So a comprehensive examination with Dilation is required to detect this devastating disease early. Ocular Coherence Tomography or OCT is an advanced laser scanning technology that is often used in our clinic for a more detailed evaluation of the Macula.
Treatment And Nutritional Supplements
There is no cure for Macular Degeneration. Age Related Eye Disease Study 2 AREDS2) was a large study conducted by the National Institute of Health and the National Eye Institute. The results of this landmark study showed that certain nutritional supplements helped to slow down the progression of Macular Degeneration. The following supplements were recommended by the AREDS 2 Study:
- Zeaxanthine
- Lutein
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Zinc
- Copper
An all-natural vegetarian AREDS 2 based supplement with a multivitamin is now available. Vision and Body Complete provides both body and Macula support. Please visit www.visionandbodycomplete.com for further information.
Wet macular degeneration can be treated with medicines called Anti-VEGF drugs. These are injected in the eye. These medicines reduce the number of abnormal blood vessels and reduce the leakage and hemorrhaging. Unfortunately, this is not a cure but it does help to slow down the ongoing damage from the abnormal blood vessels.
Visit our clinic or schedule an eye exam now!