An overview of macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is the disease of the macula, the central and most sensitive part of the retina. The disease causes a loss of central vision, which is what we see when looking straight. Affecting more than 8 million people in the country, it is the leading cause of severe, permanent vision loss in people over the age of 50. Read on to learn more about the types, symptoms, causes, and treatment options for macular degeneration.

Types and symptoms

The two types of macular degeneration are as follows:

Dry macular degeneration
This is the most common form of macular degeneration, accounting for 85 to 90 percent of all cases. It occurs when small yellow deposits called drusen form under the macula. Some common signs and symptoms of dry macular degeneration include:

• Visual distortions, such as straight lines appearing bent
• A minor loss of central vision in or both eyes
• The need for bright light when reading
• Printed words appearing blurry
• Increasing difficulty recognizing faces
• Reduced brightness and intensity of colors
• Haziness in the overall vision

Wet macular degeneration
This form of macular degeneration is rare and more serious. It occurs when abnormal, leaky blood vessels form under the retina and macula. It often develops suddenly and progresses rapidly. The signs and symptoms of wet macular degeneration are similar to the dry form, except that the vision loss is more severe in people with this form of macular degeneration.

Causes and risk factors

Macular degeneration is largely associated with aging, but researchers do not exactly know why some people develop the disease while others don’t. Researchers suggest that there may be a genetic component involved in its development. Also, certain factors increase an individual’s likelihood of developing macular degeneration. These include:

• Being over 65 years old
• Obesity
• Greater exposure to UV light
• Smoking cigarettes
• Lack of proper nutrition
• Lack of physical activity
• A family history of macular degeneration

Treatment

Macular degeneration cannot be cured, and any loss in central vision is unrestorable. However, treatments available can help slow the disease progression and vision loss. The exact treatment option depends on whether an individual has a dry form or a wet form of macular degeneration. Doctors usually recommend working with a low vision rehabilitation specialist for dry macular degeneration. The specialist may help an individual adjust and cope with vision distortion and partial vision loss.

For wet macular degeneration, some medications may help stop the progression, only if the treatment is taken immediately. This involves injecting medication directly into the affected eye to stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Other treatment options such as photodynamic therapy or photocoagulation can also help destroy abnormal blood vessels and reduce vision loss.

Natural remedies and diet

Natural remedies are often more effective in the early stages, i.e. in people with dry macular degeneration. However, regardless of what type of macular degeneration an individual has, they must remember that vision loss can only be slowed down and not reversed. Some effective natural remedies include:

• Eating antioxidant-rich foods: Studies show that dietary antioxidants can help slow down the progression of the disease. Some of the best sources include bright orange and yellow veggies like squash, carrots, citrus fruits, berries (especially blueberries), and peppers. It’s also important to include dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collards in the diet.
• Exercising regularly: Data indicates that people with high blood pressure and high cholesterol are more likely to develop the disease. Exercising regularly ensures that weight is under control and blood pressure and cholesterol levels are also in check.
• Quitting smoking: Smoking causes inflammation, damages healthy tissues, and contributes to nerve damage and vision loss. So, quitting smoking can help prevent vision loss.