The Eye - Medical Conditions [back]
Age Related Macular Degeneration
Age Related Macular Degeneration is the most common cause of poor sight in people over the age of 60.
The macula is the small central part of the retina. It is responsible for what we see when we look straight ahead, allowing us to see fine detail for activities such as reading and recognising faces, as well as allowing us to see colour. The cells of the macula are very delicate and can become damaged and worn out over time. When this occurs later in life, it is known as age related macular degeneration (AMD).
AMD usually involves both eyes, although one eye can be affected before the other. Using the ‘good’ eye will not wear it out, so don’t be afraid to use it as normal.
AMD is not painful, and never leads to total blindness as it only affects central vision. People with AMD are usually able to use their peripheral vision normally and can therefore often maintain their independence and get around.
There are 2 main types of AMD:
'Dry’ AMD
This accounts for about 90% of all cases of AMD. It develops slowly over a number of years causing gradual loss of central vision. People People with dry AMD often complain of difficulty with detailed tasks such as reading, writing and recognising small objects.
Stronger reading glasses can help in the early stages of the disease, and Low Vision Aids such as magnifiers can help
make the most of the remaining vision. In the advanced stages of the disease, people may notice a blank patch or dark spot in the centre of their vision, making detailed tasks very difficult.
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for dry AMD.
'Wet' AMD
This generally develops more quickly, resulting from new blood vessels growing behind the retina leading to bleeding and
scarring. This causes a rapid loss of vision which is often more severe than dry AMD.
Wet AMD can cause symptoms of blur or distortion, causing straight lines to appear wavy. Objects may appear an unusual
size or shape.
|
