MACULAR DEGENERATION
Age related
macular degeneration (ARMD) is the the term used to describe the
breakdown of the macula, the most sensitive area of the retina
which is responsible for detailed and color
vision.
All
of the retina is important for good vision, but the small central
portion of it, the macula, is one hundred times more sensitive than
the peripheral areas. If the macula deteriorates, the affected eye
will be unable to perceive detail, such as print on a page or
details of another's face. Progressive macular degeneration often
results in a loss of central vision, but it does not lead to total
blindness since the peripheral (side) vision is
unaffected.
Macular
degeneration is the leading cause of central vision loss in adults.
There are several types of macular degeneration, but the results
are similar for people affected with the
disease.
"Dry"
macular degeneration: In this, the most common type of macular
degeneration. In these cases, the delicate tissues of the macula
become thin and stop functioning. "Wet" macular degeneration: This
form of macular degeneration is much less common than the dry form,
but it is potentially more damaging. It is caused by the growth of
abnormal blood vessels underneath the retina. These abnormal blood
vessels leak and form scar tissue. Sometimes, the dry form of
macular degeneration can progress into the wet
form.
Since
macular degeneration develops differently in each case, the
symptoms also vary. Some of the common symptoms
include:
*
A loss of ability to see objects clearly
*
Distorted vision - objects appear to be the wrong size or shape, or
straight lines appear crooked
*
A loss of clear color vision
*
A dark or empty area appears in the center of the
vision
If
it is not controlled, the wet form of macular degeneration usually
reduces central vision significantly. However, if it is diagnosed
early, the disease may be controlled by laser treatments or
medication placed directly into the affected
eye.
The
good news about macular degeneration is that it does not cause
total blindness. Even though central vision deteriorates, side
vision remains, andwith adaptation and the use of low vision aids,
people can generally cope well and continue to do most things they
were accustomed to doing before. Low vision aids such as special
magnifiers and closed circuit television systems are available.
Large print magazines and books make reading easier. Family members
and friends can also be a greatsource of assistance if they
understand the nature of the problem and know how they can help to
compensate for the loss of central vision.
DIABETIC EYE CENTER of New York
Gary M Glickman MD PC Ophthalmology Diseases and Surgery of the Retina
