MACULAR DEGENERATION AND YOUR VISION
Macular Degeneration is a degenerative condition of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for the crisp central vision needed to perform certain tasks such as reading or driving. When the pigment in the macular thins or breaks down, vision loss can occur.
There are two basic classifications of macular degeneration.
Dry macular degeneration does not affect the eye’s vascular system. However, 10% of these cases advance to a more serious condition known as wet macular degeneration. Wet macular degeneration does affect the eye’s vascular system. With the wet form of this condition, blood vessels grow beneath the retina in an attempt to supply that part of the eye with nutrients and oxygen. But these new blood vessels leak, causing permanent damage to retinal cells. As a result, retinal cells die off, thus creating blind spots in one’s vision.
Macular degeneration may occur as a result of the aging process, but emerging research also suggests that the condition may be genetic. Various other causes of macular degeneration may include smoking, overexposure to UV rays, and high blood pressure.
SYMPTOMS OF MACULAR DEGENERATION
- Painless, gradual loss of vision for dry macular degeneration
OR
- Painless, rapid loss of vision for wet macular degeneration
- Appearance of shadows in your central vision
- Unusual distortions in your vision
TREATMENT OF MACULAR DEGENERATION
Unfortunately, there is no cure for dry macular degeneration, and any vision loss that occurs as a result of macular degeneration usually cannot be restored. Therefore, regular eye examinations are important, especially if you have a family history of the condition. Your doctor may ask you to check your vision regularly with an Amsler Grid, a chart of black lines arranged into a pattern that can detect early signs of macular degeneration-related vision loss. To use an Amsler Grid, hold the grid at the same distance you would hold reading material (about 14 inches away from you). If you wear glasses to read, wear them during your test. Cover one eye and look at the black square in the center of the grid. If the lines appear wavy, distorted or broken in any manner, you should see your vision care professional, since these distortions may be a sign of macular degeneration. To download an Amsler Grid, visit the link below.
There are, however, more treatment options for wet macular degeneration. To treat this form of the condition, your doctor may prescribe certain medications to hinder abnormal blood vessel growth. These treatments have been shown to improve vision in a significant number of patients with this version of the condition.
Photodynamic therapy can also help patients with wet macular degeneration by sealing abnormal blood vessels to prevent leaks that can damage the retina. In this painless procedure, an eye doctor administers medication through a patient’s arm. Then, the doctor activates the drug as it passes through the retinal blood vessels by shining a non-thermal laser with a specific wavelength into the eye. The combination of the medication and laser light creates a chemical reaction that destroys leaking blood vessels. Photodynamic therapy may be used in conjunction with other treatments.
Emerging research for wet macular degeneration appears promising as well. Several treatments still under FDA study involve the use of genes or proteins to hinder the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Other options, including a revolutionary antioxidant eye drop, are intended to supplement the eye’s natural defense system to prevent eye disease and to prevent dry macular degeneration from developing into wet macular degeneration. Although controversial and still under investigation, stem cell therapies for macular degeneration have been shown to help regenerate retinal tissues and restore vision. Stem cell treatment can also provide protection for the remaining, functioning photoreceptors in the retina to help preserve vision in those affected by the disease. Researchers are even tapping into the break-through sciences of retinal transplantation and artificial retinas. Though still in their early stages of development, these treatments could offer new hope for patients who have lost all or most of their vision due to advanced macular degeneration.
Sometimes, macular degeneration is treated with low vision devices such as magnifying lenses and bright lights. Some low vision devices can shift images to the periphery for better vision. Nutritional treatment may also alleviate symptoms of macular degeneration. Studies have shown that increased intake of antioxidants such as lutein, zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and zeaxanthin can increase the pigment in the macula and prevent its degeneration. Dark green, leafy vegetables and brightly colored fruits are excellent sources of these nutrients. Dietary supplements such as Science Based Health’s Macular Protect Complete can also benefit patients at high risk for developing macular degeneration.