Eye Health Information Center

macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is a leading cause of central vision loss among people over age 50. It results from changes to the macula, a portion of the retina, which is located on the inside back layer of the eye. The macula is responsible for clear, sharp vision and is many times more sensitive than the rest of the retina. Without a healthy macula, seeing detail or vivid color is not possible.

There are two types of age-related macular degeneration: dry and wet.

In the dry type, the tissue of the macula becomes thin and stops functioning properly. This type is thought to occur as part of the aging process of the eye in some people. There is currently no treatment available for this slowly progressive condition.

In the wet form, which is less common, fluids from newly formed blood vessels leak under the macula and cause significant vision loss. This condition can sometimes be treated with laser therapy, but early detection and prompt treatment is vital in limiting damage.

who is at risk

The greatest risk factor for macular degeneration is age. Although this condition may occur during middle age, studies show that people over age 60 are clearly at greater risk than other age groups. For instance, a large study found that people in middle-age have about a 2 percent risk of getting macular degeneration, but this risk increased to nearly 30 percent in those over age 75. Other people at risk are those who have increased bright light exposure, such as those who work outdoors. Macular degeneration is more commonly found in those of Northern European descent. Those with blue or light-colored eyes and fair skin are at greater risk as well.

Risk of developing the disease can be reduced by the following:

• Do not smoke - smoking contributes to the death of healthy cells in the eye.
• Wear sunglasses. Protection from blue light will reduce your risk.
• Practice good nutrition. There is evidence that increased vitamin intake can protect against some eye disease.

symptoms of macular degeneration

Some symptoms of macular degeneration are:

• A gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly.
• Objects appear to be distorted in shape or straight lines appear wavy or crooked.
• A gradual loss of clear color vision.
• A dark or empty area appearing in the center of vision.

These symptoms may also indicate other eye health problems, so if you are experiencing any of these, you should contact your doctor of optometry as soon as possible. In a comprehensive eye examination, your doctor will perform a variety of tests to determine if you have macular degeneration or other eye conditions.

To schedule an eye exam or a FREE LASIK consultation, call 1-800-EYECARE (393-2273) for an exam at any of our Crown Vision Center locations.