Age-Related Macular Degeneration Overview

Age-related macular degeneration most commonly occurs in people over the age of 60 and is the leading cause of vision loss for this age range. Age-related macular degeneration occurs when the center of the retina begins to deteriorate. Vision loss occurs as the light sensitive nerve tissue at the back of the eye ceases to function properly. As a result, progressive vision loss occurs, which is often severe but rarely a cause for blindness.

There are two forms of age-related macular degeneration that occur most often; dry form and wet form. The dry form of this condition occurs when the yellow deposits known as drusen are found in the central portion of the retina. As these deposits accumulate and increase in size, vision becomes dimmed or distorted. The wet form of this condition is caused by an abnormal growth of blood vessels within the central portion of the retina. Overtime, these blood vessels begin to leak fluid and blood into the retina, causing distorted vision.

What are the Symptoms?

Most people do not experience symptoms of age-related macular degeneration until the condition has progressed to include both eyes. The first noticeable symptoms include the distortion of straight lines. This generally occurs as central vision loss occurs. It is not uncommon for people to experience blurry, dark areas to appear in the areas of central vision or for white out areas to appear. Many people experience a diminished color perception.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Age-related macular degeneration can easily be diagnosed through a routine eye examination. If the drusen deposits are in the eye, the ophthalmologist will be able to see these deposits during the evaluation. In some cases, a dye is injected into the arm, which will show the blood vessels in the eye as the dye passes through. This will show if there is leakage in the eye.

How Is It Treated?

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for age-related macular degeneration. However, there are certain treatments that have shown to slow the progression of vision loss. According to the National Eye Institute of the National Institutes of Health, certain vitamins, such as vitamin C and E, can slow the progression of vision loss. High-energy laser therapy has shown to destroy the abnormal blood vessels that cause this condition. Low vision aids, which are devices that have special lenses and electronic systems, can help those with vision loss by enlarging objects. By using these aids, people are able to make the most of the vision they maintain.

References:

"Mucular Degeneration" WebMD
"Macular Degeneration" Medline Plus