Learn About Macular Degeneration

Poor eyesight often accompanies old age. One primary cause of age-related vision loss is macular degeneration, a disease that destroys a person�s central vision. Left untreated, this disease can lead to complete vision loss. Let�s take a look at the causes, symptoms, and treatments for macular degeneration.

Macular Degeneration Causes

Unfortunately, nobody knows the exact cause of macular degeneration. It occurs most frequently in Caucasians over the age of 50. Women, smokers, and those with a family history of the disease have a higher risk of developing macular degeneration.

Types of Macular Degeneration

There are two types of macular degeneration: wet form and dry form. The dry variety accounts for 90% of all macular degeneration cases. While its cause remains unknown, doctors speculate that diseased eye tissues cause the breakdown and eventual destruction of light-sensing cells. Wet macular degeneration is more severe. It involves the growth and leakage of blood vessels within the eye. When the vessels leak fluid and blood into the retina, blindness can rapidly result.

Macular Degeneration Symptoms

The symptoms of macular degeneration can be mistaken for typical age-related vision loss, so they often go undetected until the condition is advanced. Symptoms include blurred central vision, dim vision, difficulty seeing details up close, and line distortion. In wet macular degeneration, these symptoms are frequently more noticeable. Left unchecked, the disease progresses through three stages: asymptomatic, blurred central vision, and complete central vision loss.

Treatment for Macular Degeneration

Treatment for dry macular degeneration is largely unavailable. Through nutrition and antioxidant supplements, doctors can help their patients slow the condition, but not stop it altogether. Wet macular degeneration can be treated through laser eye surgery, but only if the condition is diagnosed in its early stages. Anti-vascular drugs can be prescribed to inhibit the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eye.

If you suspect that you may be experiencing macular degeneration, schedule an appointment at an ophthalmology clinic as soon as possible to learn about your treatment options.