Did you know that macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in people over 60?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that gradually causes loss of central vision. There are two forms of macular degeneration: Wet and Dry AMD.
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula (central retina). These new blood vessels tend to be very fragile and often leak, causing rapid vision loss.
An early symptom of wet AMD is straight lines that appear wavy. If this occurs, you should see a retinal specialist immediately.
Dry AMD occurs when light-sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down, gradually blurring central vision. You also may notice difficulty recognizing faces, or you may need a lot more light to read or do other daily tasks.
Therefore, it is very important to have a comprehensive retinal exam periodically. This is because up to 20 percent of dry AMD can change to wet AMD, the latter often requiring treatment immediately.
Most people with AMD are seen at least twice a year, and if being treated, could be seen every four to five weeks. There is no treatment for dry AMD, but there are vitamin supplements that can be taken to slow the progression.
It is recommended that you see a retinal specialist so they can check your retina and macula, and recommend the appropriate vitamin supplements.
The National Eye Institutes Age-Related Eye Disease study (AREDS) found that taking a specific, high-dose formulation of antioxidants and zinc significantly reduces the risk of advanced AMD and its associated vision loss by up to 25-30 percent.
There are effective treatments available for wet AMD, including injection and laser treatments.
Your retinal specialist may recommend for you to have a test called a Fluorescein Angiography or an Optical Coherence Tomography to see how progressed your macular degeneration may be, if it is the dry or wet AMD, and if the dry AMD is changing to the wet AMD.
Risk factors for macular degeneration include smoking, obesity, non-exercise, family history, race, and age. That is why periodic retinal exams are so important.
Call Quality Eye Associates today to schedule an appointment. Our Retinal Specialist, Dr. Jun Huang, MD, PhD, will be glad to provide you with a detailed examination and explanations.
In Cape May County, call Court House Eye Care at (609) 465-0100 and in Atlantic County call (609) 927-2020.
