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Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease which affect the macula, the central portion of the retina that controls central vision. Deterioration results in problems with reading, driving a car, recognizing colors or faces, or seeing details of objects.
As macular cells deteriorate, the eye cannot process images correctly. Symptoms might not be apparent in the early stages of AMD. As it progresses, patients sometimes lose all central vision but retain peripheral vision.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
- Blurred vision
- Central shadows or missing areas of vision
- Distorted vision (wavy lines)
- Trouble distinguishing colors and facial features
- Difficulty adjusting from bright to dim light
Risk Factors
Age (most common over 60), Family history and genetics. Race (more common in Caucasians), Smoking, Obesity, Cardiovascular
Dry Macular Degeneration
The dry form of age-related macular degeneration is the most common form and is characterized by the appearance of yellow or white deposits in the macula, known as drusen. As these drusen appear and grow in size they lead to increased distortion in vision.
In later stages of dry macular degeneration, a thinning of the macula may gradually lead to the formation of blind spots and eventually a loss of central vision in advanced cases.
Wet Macular Degeneration
The wet form of age-related macular degeneration is a more advanced and serious retinal condition. Wet macular degeneration is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels underneath the macula.
These blood vessels cause swelling and bleeding in the macula causing a distortion of vision. For patients with the wet form of age-related macular degeneration, straight lines will appear wavy and blind spots may appear.
Eventually, these abnormal blood vessels will scar, leading to a permanent loss of central vision.
Causes
-Over the age of 60 years old
-Family history of age-related macular degeneration
-History of smoking
-History of high blood pressure
-High cholesterol or obesity
-More common among women than men
-More common among Caucasians
Diagnosis and Treatment
Timely diagnosis and treatment of macular degeneration is critical in maintaining your ocular health and vision. There are now new treatments available for macular degeneration. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.