Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration (also called AMD, ARMD, or age-related macular degeneration), is a chronic eye disease involving deterioration of the macula. The macula is the most sensitive part of the retina and is responsible for our central vision. Those affected by macular degeneration may find daily tasks such as reading and driving increasingly difficult.

There are two forms of macular degeneration: dry (non-neovascular) and wet (neovascular).

  • Dry macular degeneration accounts for about 90% of all macular degeneration. In this type of macular degeneration, small, yellowish deposits of metabolic waste products build up under the retina. As these deposits enlarge, vision may become blurry and distorted. However, most vision changes at this stage are relatively mild.
  • Wet macular degeneration is the more advanced stage of the disease. At this stage, new blood vessels (neovascularization) begin to grow underneath the retina. These new blood vessels are fine, delicate vessels that are prone to leak and bleed. The leakage from these blood vessels can cause permanent damage and scarring of the retina. This results in blind spots and loss of central vision.

There is currently no cure for macular degeneration, but there are treatments that may delay its progression and possibly improve vision.

  • Diet appears to play an important role. Diets high in antioxidants such as Vitamin A and E along with zinc and copper may slow down any changes. In addition, supplementing your diet with leutein, xeazanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids may also be beneficial.
  • Stop smoking! Smoking has shown to be strongly associated with the progression of macular degeneration.
  • UV protective glasses both in your regular prescription glasses and in sunglasses.
  • If wet macular degeneration develops, treatments may be instituted to target these abnormal blood vessels.
    • For several years, the main treatment was some form of laser therapy targeted to destroy the new blood vessels. This treatment is effective in eliminating the blood vessels, but the lasers also damage normal retina causing some permanent visual loss.
    • The most recent advances involve injections of medication directly into the eye. These new drugs cause the new blood vessels to regress without damaging the surrounding retina.

While there is no cure for macular degeneration, early detection is crucial to preserving vision. Dilated eye examinations help your eye doctor detect and monitor for any development of macular degeneration. Your doctor may ask you to check your vision at home with an Amsler grid - a small chart of thin, black lines arranged in a grid pattern. Macular degeneration causes these lines to appear distorted, wavy or missing. If you notice any changes, be sure to see your eye doctor right away.