Macular degeneration is an eye disease that primarily affects people over the age of 50. It’s a leading cause of vision loss among older adults, and while there is currently no cure, there are treatments available that can slow its progression.
What is age-related macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula which is the centre of the light sensitive retina at the back of your eye. Damage to it can cause loss of central vision.
Macular degeneration can be categorised into two types:
Dry macular degeneration is more common and is characterised by the thinning of the macula.
Wet macular degeneration is caused by abnormal blood vessels leaking fluid or blood into the region of the macula.
Both types result in blurred or reduced central vision.
Recognising the Signs of Macular Degeneration
The symptoms of macular degeneration often develop gradually and without pain, making them easy to overlook in the early stages.
As the condition progresses, you may experience:
Visual distortions: Straight lines or faces may appear wavy or bent. This is one of the most common symptoms of both types of macular degeneration.
Difficulty seeing in low light: You may find it increasingly difficult to see in dimly lit environments.
Blurred or reduced central vision: This can affect activities like reading, driving, and recognising faces.
Dark, blurry areas or whiteouts in your vision: These typically occur in the centre of your field of vision and may grow larger over time.
Changes in colour perception: You may notice that colours appear less bright or intense than they used to.
It's important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other eye conditions. Therefore, if you notice any changes in your vision, it's essential to consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist for a comprehensive examination.
What treatment is there for macular degeneration?
While there is currently no cure for macular degeneration, there are treatments available that can slow its progression.
For wet AMD, treatments aim to stop further vision loss and may include injections into the eye or light treatment.
For dry AMD, while no treatment can reverse the condition, measures such as using magnifying lenses to help with reading and other tasks can be beneficial.
It's also important to note that lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, and stopping smoking can help manage the condition.
Prevention and management of macular degeneration
While age-related macular degeneration (AMD) cannot be prevented entirely, certain lifestyle changes can reduce your risk and help manage the condition if you already have it:
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet rich in green leafy vegetables and fish can contribute to overall eye health.
Quit smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for macular degeneration. Quitting smoking can reduce your risk.
Regular eye exams: The NHS recommends an eye test every two years for adults over the age of 60. Regular eye exams can help detect macular degeneration in its early stages, which can lead to more effective treatment.
Protect your eyes from the sun: Wearing sunglasses that block harmful UV rays can protect your retina and delay the onset of AMD.
The importance of understanding your eye health
Macular degeneration is an eye condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life.
While there is currently no cure, understanding the condition and its symptoms can lead to early diagnosis and treatment, which can slow its progression.