Disease
Macular Degeneration
Overview of Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over the age of 50, often referred to as Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). It can appear in two main forms: dry AMD and wet AMD. While dry AMD progresses slowly, wet AMD can lead to sudden vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina.
Types of Macular Degeneration
- Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD): The most common form, where the macula gradually thins and small yellow deposits (drusen) accumulate.
- Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD): Less common but more severe, involving leakage from abnormal blood vessels.
- Stargardt’s Disease (Juvenile Macular Degeneration): A genetic form often seen in younger individuals, linked to macular dystrophy.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
- Blurred or distorted central vision.
- Straight lines appearing wavy or crooked.
- Difficulty reading or recognizing faces.
- Dark, blurry areas in the center of vision.
- Colors appearing faded or less vibrant.
- Needing brighter light for close-up tasks.
- Slow recovery of vision after bright light exposure.
Causes of Macular Degeneration
- Aging is the primary cause in age-related cases.
- Genetic factors (hereditary risk of macular dystrophy or Stargardt’s disease).
- Smoking and cardiovascular diseases.
- Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet or blue light.
- Obesity and poor diet lacking antioxidants and vitamins.
Complications in Macular Degeneration
- Severe loss of central vision impacting daily tasks.
- Permanent vision loss if untreated, especially in wet AMD.
- Increased risk of falls and injuries due to poor vision.
- Emotional distress or depression from sudden lifestyle limitations.
- Dependency on others for routine activities.
Risk Factors of Macular Degeneration
- Age over 50.
- Family history of AMD or retinal degeneration.
- Smoking or long-term exposure to pollutants.
- Hypertension, high cholesterol or heart disease.
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle.
- Excessive sun exposure without eye protection.
Preventions of Macular Degeneration
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins.
- Use sunglasses that block UV and blue light.
- Quit smoking to reduce risk significantly.
- Regular eye checkups after the age of 40.
- Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
- Engage in physical activities to improve blood circulation.
Diagnosis of Macular Degeneration
- Dilated eye exam: To detect drusen and assess macular health.
- Amsler grid test: Identifies distortion in central vision.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed images of the retina.
- Fluorescein Angiography: Detects leaking blood vessels in wet AMD.
- Visual acuity tests: Measures clarity of central vision.
Treatments of Macular Degeneration
1. For Wet AMD:
- Anti-VEGF injections (like ARMD injections) to stop blood vessel growth.
- Photodynamic therapy to destroy abnormal vessels.
- Laser therapy in selected cases.
2. For Dry AMD:
- No cure, but progression can be slowed with high-dose vitamins (AREDS2 formula).
- Lifestyle changes and self-care strategies.
- Low-vision aids for visual support.
3. Surgical Options:
- Macular degeneration surgery in advanced or selected wet cases.
- Clinical trials exploring gene therapy and retinal implants.
Prognosis of Macular Degeneration
- Dry AMD progresses slowly—many retain functional vision for years.
- Wet AMD can cause rapid vision loss, but early treatment improves outcomes.
- With timely care, lifestyle adjustments and vision support tools, quality of life can be preserved.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Patient Support for Macular Degeneration
- Personalised eye care plans guided by top retinal specialists.
- Access to advanced imaging technologies and targeted therapies.
- Support for international patients seeking AMD treatment in India.
- Vision rehabilitation and post-treatment care.
- Nutritional guidance and lifestyle modification support for long-term vision preservation.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What type of macular degeneration do I have—dry or wet?
- Will this disease make me completely blind?
- Can my current treatment reverse the damage?
- How often do I need to come for injections or checkups?
- Are there any supplements or vitamins that will help?
- Should I change my lifestyle or diet?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation
- Clear explanation of what AMD is and how it affects the eyes.
- Differentiation between dry and wet types with treatment options.
- Guidance on diet, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments.
- Honest discussion about prognosis and expectations.
- Emotional support and help in coping with vision changes.
- Access to latest therapies including eye injections for macular degeneration.
- Clarity on follow-ups, recovery, and treatment effectiveness.