What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a condition that affects a part of the eye called the macula, which is the area of the retina responsible for central vision and our ability to see fine detail. Macular degeneration is estimated to affect as many as 11 million Americans, and this number is expected to double to nearly 22 million by 2050.
 

Many people are surprised to discover that there are two different types of macular degeneration. These two types are known as “wet” and “dry.”
 

 Wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow in the macula and leak blood and fluid, causing scarring that damages vision. This condition must be treated quickly to prevent further scarring and to keep the patient’s vision from declining. Wet macular degeneration is relatively rare, accounting for just 10% of cases.
 

Dry macular degeneration is much more common and is often referred to as “age-related macular degeneration,” or AMD for short, since it is most often associated with people over sixty. It occurs when the cells of the macula naturally start to deteriorate. Dry AMD typically develops slowly over a number of months and years.
 

Symptoms of Dry Macular Degeneration

As we know, dry macular degeneration usually develops slowly, and as a result, it can take a long time for symptoms to appear and eventually become noticeable. Some of the signs associated with AMD include:

• Distorted vision, for example, lines that should appear straight instead look bent or wavy

• Difficulty seeing fine detail in objects

• Needing brighter lighting for reading or close-up work

• Difficulty visually adapting when moving from light to dark environments

• Blurred vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Colors seeming less bright and intense than before

• Difficulty recognizing faces and telling people apart

• A defined blurry patch or a blind spot in one’s vision
   

Dry AMD can affect one or both eyes, and the rate of progression may vary, too. It is usually detected at comprehensive eye exams rather than at appointments scheduled because of symptoms. Wet AMD develops quickly: patients experiencing it will often notice changes in their vision that triggers them to make an appointment with their eye doctor. It’s important to be aware that neither variety causes any pain.

Can Macular Degeneration Be Treated?

Unfortunately, there isn’t currently a cure for macular degeneration. Instead, patients are encouraged to use a variety of visual aids to help them see as clearly as possible and maintain a good quality of life. Visual aids include:

• Brighter lighting

• Light-adjustment tools on digital devices

• Prescription glasses

• Magnifying lenses
   

If you have been diagnosed with wet macular degeneration, you will need prompt treatment to prevent any further abnormal blood cells from developing and leaking into the macula. This usually involves the use of a medication called anti-VEGF. This medication is injected directly into the eyes and is highly effective at preventing vision from worsening. Photodynamic therapy is another option; it is a light treatment that works by destroying the abnormal blood vessels found in patients with wet AMD.
 

If you are concerned about macular degeneration and would like to speak to trained and experienced professionals, please contact our team at Mid-Modern Eyecare in Midland, Michigan, at (989) 486-3025 today.