Macular Degeneration
Description
This disorder destroys the central vision of the eye. It is the leading cause of vision loss in patients over 60. The macula is a part of the retina that enables one to see fine detail. Over time the cells of the macula die causing a gradual and painless loss of eyesight. The cause of macula degeneration is unknown but the following conditions increase the risk of developing this disorder: family history of the problem, increasing age, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, being white, and being female.
Symptoms
Gradual loss of eyesight. Needing brighter light to read, increased blurry vision, increased problems reading, problems recognizing faces, a blind spot in the center of vision.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be done. The central vision is tested using an Amsler grid. The retina is examined using a magnifier called an ophthalmoscope to see characteristic changes of the macula. An angiogram of the retina or special pictures of the retina using optical coherence tomography may be done.
Treatment
The vision loss of this disorder cannot be reversed but it can be slowed down. It is recommended patients take Vitamin C, Vitamin E, beta carotene, copper and zinc supplements. Patients should stop smoking. Special magnifying glasses may help patients read. Thee are more investigational drugs available for certain subsets of patients with this disorder (Anecortave acetate/Retaane, pegaptanib/Macugen).
Related Videos
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Macular degeneration?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.
I have dry eyes. When i go to sleep at night and wake up during the night it is hard to open my eyes
Lucy Ga.