Macular Degeneration

What Everyone Should Know About Macular Degeneration

MACULAR DEGENERATION: An eye condition in which the macula is damaged, often causing loss of central vision. (Macula=sensitive area in the retina responsible for central and detail vision.)

TYPES: "Dry form" - usually progresses slowly and causes central vision loss. "Wet" form - rarer, and more severe. May progress rapidly causing significant central vision loss.

WHO GETS IT: Most common in people over 60; but can appear as early as age 40. Macular degeneration is the most common cause of severe vision loss among people over 65, and, as life expectancy increases, the disease is becoming an increasingly significant problem.

CAUSES: Not certain. No conclusive proof exists, however some scientists believe heredity may play a part, as may UV light exposure and nutrition. Studies are ongoing.

SYMPTOMS: Blurred or fuzzy vision; straight lines (such as sentences on a page or telephone poles) appear wavy; blind spot in the center of vision.

PREVENTION: Not certain. Some steps may help:

Regular eye exams by your Eye Care Professional . Your Eye Care Professional is specially trained to detect many vision-threatening conditions even before you develop symptoms. The earlier problems are detected, the better the chance of preventing vision loss.

Protection from UV-A and UV-B rays. Some studies have suggested that prolonged or frequent exposure to UV-A and UV-B rays may be a factor in macular degeneration and other eye conditions, so always wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100% of UV rays when outdoors.

Proper nutrition. Although there is no concrete evidence that nutrition plays a role in macular degeneration, a healthy diet can't hurt and can prevent many other health problems. Some Eye Care Professional may recommend vitamins or minerals to supplement your diet.

TREATMENT: "Dry" form - usually none. Low vision rehabilitation can help those with significant vision loss to maintain excellent quality of life. "Wet" form - laser surgery may help. Low vision rehabilitation for those with vision loss.

CURRENT RESEARCH: There is a great deal of research and several major scientific studies being conducted to find the causes and develop effective treatments for all types of macular degeneration. Visit the National Eye Institute Web site for additional information at www.nei.nih.gov.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the most promising new treatments for the "wet" type of macular degeneration. It involves the injection of a recently approved drug, called Visudyne, into the bloodstream, followed by a brief laser treatment. The laser "activates" the drug, which helps destroy abnormal blood vessels in the eye that damage the macula. The procedure may be done in the Eye Care Professional office, and several treatments may be necessary for it to be effective.

Because the US Food and Drug Administration recently approved Visudyne used for PDT as safe and effective, PDT may become more widely available to patients. However, it is not a good choice for everyone. Your Eye Care Professional can tell you if you might be a good candidate for treatment.

Unproven Treatments. Be wary of any treatment that promises to restore vision, or cure or prevent macular degeneration. There are many so-called "miracle cures" advertised (often in magazines or on the Internet) that have not been adequately tested for safety or efficacy. These treatments may be expensive, and are generally not covered by insurance. If you are considering trying a new or untested treatment, make sure you talk to your Eye Care Professional to ensure they are safe and won't interfere with timely and effective treatment of any eye problems.

LOW VISION REHABILITATION: Can help people who have experienced mild to severe vision loss adjust to their condition and continue to enjoy active and independent lifestyles. Rehabilitation may involve anything from adjusting the lighting in your home to learning to use low vision aids to help you read and perform daily tasks. Your Eye Care Professional can arrange rehabilitation or refer you to organizations that can help.

SUPPORT: Adjusting to vision loss can be difficult at first. Your Eye Care Professional may be able to recommend some support groups for people with low vision. You can support friends and family by encouraging them in their rehabilitation efforts and providing help (such as rides to appointments) when needed.

RESOURCES: Your Eye Care Professional is your best resource for any eye-care question or need.