Macular Degeneration

What is Macular Degeneration?

 

Macular degeneration is a progressive condition that affects the macula -- the central part of the retina at the back of the eye. The macula is responsible for detailed vision, allowing us to see fine details, such as reading text or recognising faces.

 

As we age, the macula can show some aging signs too. When these changes are more pronounced than normal, it leads to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This condition causes blurred or distorted vision. In the davanced stages, it can cause a dark or black spot in the central of your vision. For example, you may be able to see around a person's face, but not the face itself.

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Age related macular degeneration is the most common cause of blindness in older adults. While there is no cure for macular degeneration, early detection and treatment can significantly slow its progression and help preserve vision.

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There are two main types of macular degeneration: Dry and Wet

• Dry Macular Degeneration: The more common form and typically progresses slowly. Vision loss is typically less severe in the early stages but can worsen over time.

• Wet Macular Degeneration: This form is less common but much more aggressive. It involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, which can leak fluid and cause severe damage to the macula. Without prompt treatment, it can result in rapid and severe vision loss.

 

Both forms require regular monitoring and treatment, but Wet Macular Degeneration in particular demands immediate intervention.

 

 

Who's at Greater Risk?

 

While Macular Degeneration can affect anyone, certain factors may increase your risk:

• Age: The risk of macular degeneration increases significantly with age. In New Zealand, 1 in 7 people over 50 will develop Macular Degeneration.

• Family History: Genetics play a major role. If you have a family history of mauclar degeneration, you are at a higher risk.

• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing Macular Degeneration by 2-4 times compared to non-smokers.

• UV Exposure: High levels of UV exposure also increase the risk. In New Zealand, protecting your eyes from the sun is especially important.

 

 

What Macular Degeneration can lead to?

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• Early Stages: In the early stages, macular degeneration may cause subtle vision changes, such as mild blurriness or distortion in central vision. Glasses often won't correct these issues.

• Advanced Stages: As the disease progresses, it can lead to significant vision loss, particularly the central vision. If left untreated, Wet Macular Degeneration can cause functional blindness within two years.

 

 

Recongnising the Symptoms

 

The early signs of macular degeneration can often go unnoticed because they tend to be subtle. However, being aware of changes in your vision is important. Symptoms include:

• Distorted or Wavy Lines: Straight lines may appear bent or wavy.

• Difficulty Reading or Recognising Faces: Central vision may blur, making it hard to see fine details.

• Dark Patches or Empty Spaces: Dark areas or gaps in your central vision, often in the central vision.

• Poor Night Vision: Difficulty seeing in low light conditions.

• Decreased Colour Sensitivity: Colours may appear dull or less vibrant.

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A simple Amsler Grid test is a helpful way to monitor for any distortions in your vision. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an eye exam right away.

 

Amsler Grid - see the bottom of this page.

 

 

How We Test for Macular Degeneration

 

At Lowes Taaffe & Bhikoo Optometrists, we use advanced technology to diagnose and monitor macular degeneration. Our testing may include:

• Detailed eye health examination: This includes a thorough check of the retina and macula. Dilating your pupils may be required for a clearer view.

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This non-invasive scan allows us to view the layers of the retina in great details and detect any early signs of Macular Degeneration.

• Widefield Digital Retinal Imaging: This high-resolution imaging tool captures detailed images of the retina to monitor any changes over time.

• Dilated Eye Exam: We may use eye drops to dilate your pupils, allowing us to get a wider and clearer view of the back of the eye. This may blur your vision for 2-3 hours, so we recommend arranging a driver for your appointment if this is needed.

• Amsler Grid: Amsler grid is a simple but effective way to check for distortions in your central vision.

 

 

What are the Treatment for Macular Degeneration?

 

While there is no cure for macular degeneration, treatment can slow its progression. If let untreated, macular degeneration can lead to blindness within 10 years of onset, but with early detection and treatment, it's possible to delay progression for decades, significantly improving quality of life and independence.

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• Dry Macular Degeneration: If detected early, we monitor the condition over time and recommend lifestyle changes, including a diet rich in antioxidants, and supplements. Studies like AREDS I & II have shown that specific nutrients, such as zinc, vitamins C & E, lutein, and zeaxanthin, can help slow down progression from early to advanced stages.

• Wet Macular Degeneration: If the condition has progressed to the wet form, urgent referral to a specialist is necessary. Treatments often involve Anti-VEGF injections, which stop stop the growth of abnormal blood vessel and reduce fluid leakage in the macula. These injections are typically administered every monthly or longer, depending on the condition's stability.

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Our experienced optometrists uses the latest technology including OCT and Widefield Digital Retinal Imaging, to track any changes in your macular overtime. By comparing new results with your previous records, we can detect any significant changes early on.

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Long-term management of Macular Degeneration involves regular monitoring by both your eye health professionals (optometrists or ophthalmologist), and through self-checks using the Amsler Grid at home.

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We also recommend consulting your doctor before starting any supplements to ensure there are no contraindications.

 

 

How to Protect Your Vision

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1. Sun Protection: Since UV exposure is a significant risk factor, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and hats is essential in New Zealand.

2. Avoid Smoking: Smoking dramatically increases your risk of developing macular degeneration, so stopping is one of the most impactful things you can do for your eye health.

3. Nutrition: Eating a diet rich in antioxidants - such as fish, nuts, and green leafy vegetables -- supports overall eye health.

4. Maintain Good General Health: Keeping your blood pressure and overall health in check is beneficial for eye health.