Macular Degeneration is an eye condition in which the macula, a sensitive area in the retina responsible for central and detail vision, is damaged, often causing loss of central vision.

Types

• "Dry" form — the most common form usually progresses slowly and causes central vision loss.
• "Wet" form — rare, and more severe. May progress rapidly causing significant central vision loss.
  

Who Gets It

Most common in people over 50, but can appear as early as age 40. As life expectancy increases, the disease is becoming a significant problem.

Causes

No conclusive proof exists. However, some scientists believe heredity may play a part, as well as 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

• Regular eye exams by your eye doctor. Your eye doctor 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 percent to 100 percent of UV rays when outdoors.
• Proper nutrition. High levels of zinc and antioxidants can play a role in slowing the progression of macular degeneration. A healthy diet can't hurt and can prevent many other health problems.
  

Treatment

"Dry" form — No proven effective treatment. Low vision rehabilitation can help those with significant vision loss to maintain excellent quality of life.

"Wet" form — laser surgery or photodynamic therapy may help as well as low vision rehabilitation.

Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the most promising new treatments for the "wet" form of macular degeneration. It involves the injection of the FDA-approved drug,VisudyneTM, 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 M.D.s' office, and several treatments may be necessary for it to be effective.

Because the US Food and Drug Administration has approved Visudyne use 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 M.D. can tell you if you might be a good candidate for treatment.

Unproven Treatments

Be wary of any treatment that promises to restore vision, 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 MD to ensure they are safe and won't interfere with timely and effective treatment of other eye problems.

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 www.nei.nih.gov.

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 doctor can arrange rehabilitation or refer you to organizations that can help.

Support

Adjusting to vision loss can be difficult at first. Your eye doctor 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.