Macular degeneration is the leading cause of central vision loss among people over 60. It results from changes to the macular ( center portion of the retina) responsible for sharp color vision, and is located on the inside back wall of the eye.
In macular degeneration, the tissue of the macular becomes thin and stop working well. This form is thought to be a part of the natural aging process in some people; and therefore know as Dry Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
As Dry Macular Degeneration progresses, blood vessels under the retina break and leak, hence this leads to Wet Macular Degeneration. The Wet Macular Degeneration is more likely to cause a relatively sudden change in vision resulting in serious vision loss.
Symptoms usually develop gradually and without pain. They may include:
- Visual distortions, such as straight lines seeming bent
- Reduced central vision in one or both eyes
- The need for brighter light when reading or doing close-up work
- Difficulty recognizing faces
Prevention
We recommend that anyone over the age over 50 years old get a comprehensive eye examination, which checks not only for vision changes, but also screens for macular degeneration. This generally involves a dilated retinal examination, and or retinal imaging (Optos). Let us help you maintain good eye health and seeing clear.
