What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

The most common cause of blindness among people over 65 is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This disease is caused by the hardening of the arteries that nourish the retina affecting the macula (the part of the retina responsible for clear vision). The central vision deteriorates from a lack of oxygen and essential nutrients necessary for it to function properly.

Other risk factors for age-related macular degeneration include female gender, family history, smoking, cardiovascular disease, and sun exposure.

There Are Two Types Of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration can be characterized by loss of central vision, either gradually or abruptly. It can also cause difficulty while reading and performing tasks that require detail as it can distort your vision.

The most common form is non-exudative, also known as dry age-related macular degeneration. It has a better prognosis for long-term vision than wet AMD.

Exudative, also known as wet age-related macular degeneration, is a condition that causes new blood vessels to grow under the retina. This can lead to severe vision loss and scarring.

There is currently no treatment for age-related macular degeneration. Low vision rehabilitation therapy is beneficial for most people with impaired central vision. Although laser coagulation might benefit patients with wet AMD, the rate of new vessel growth after treatment is more than 50%. Research is ongoing on many experimental treatments for macular

degeneration. Research suggests that antioxidant vitamins and nutritional supplements may also be beneficial in preventing age-related macular degeneration in some patients.

Improve Age-Related Macular Degeneration with Treatment

Receive professional help from specialists who care about your vision when you contact Retina & Vitreous of Louisiana today. We can help slow the process of age-related macular degeneration with expert treatment.

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