Age-Related Macular Degeneration or (AMD) typically affects the elderly and is most common in Caucasian patients. It is a leading cause of permanent vision loss in individuals over the age of 60.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration occurs when the small central part of the retina known as the macula degenerates. It is the area of the retina that maintains our sharpest vision. AMD may occur in one or both eyes and may affect each eye differently.
There are characteristically two types of macular degeneration which are referred to as dry and wet.
Dry macular degeneration – is more common and causes a gradual loss of central vision. It is due to an accumulation of proteins in the macula that cause the retinal cells to lose function. Patients with dry AMD will notice a gradual loss of vision that progresses over time.
Wet macular degeneration – causes a sudden loss of vision and is treatable. It is caused by leaky blood vessels in the retina and is a more visually threatening condition. There are various drugs which can be injected into the eye to reverse the process in many people
Although macular degeneration is mostly associated with aging, there may also be genetic components to the disease. There are other various risk factors for developing AMD that include:
The symptoms of AMD can make reading, watching TV, or recognising faces very difficult. These symptoms usually develop gradually and without pain. If you experience or develop any of these symptoms, get an early diagnosis and treatment.
There is currently no cure for either wet or dry macular degeneration. Treatment includes injections known as angiogenesis inhibitors. These are prescribed to patients with wet AMD. Patients with dry AMD can try combinations of dietary and nutritional supplements that have been shown to slow down the progression of the disease.
Certain types of the disease may respond to laser or injections into the eye. This can prevent severe vision loss. There are various treatments that have an effect on the disease process including anti-VEGF injections and steroid injections
Should you, or someone you know experience any vision problems, set up an appointment with Dr. Ladner today. He is a specialist ophthalmologist operating in the Berea, Durban and Kloof areas of KZN.
