Macular degeneration is an eye condition primarily affecting those aged 50 and over. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) results from macular damage or damage to the part of the eye responsible for central vision (macula).
An early warning sign of macular degeneration is tiny yellow deposits at the back of the eye. Your eye doctor can identify these deposits during an eye exam.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration primarily affects central vision, making everyday tasks like reading, driving, and recognizing faces difficult. The macula, part of the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) responsible for sharp and detailed vision, becomes damaged, leading to blurred or dark spots in the visual field.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
Eye exams are crucial for detecting macular degeneration in its early stages. Optometrists use advanced imaging techniques to examine the retina, identifying subtle changes before noticeable symptoms arise.
You should have regular eye exams if you are at risk for AMD. Risk factors can include:
- Age: 50 or older
- A family history of AMD
- Caucasian
- Smoking
Types of Macular Degeneration
There are 2 types of macular degeneration, each with distinct characteristics and prevalence rates. Knowing the difference between dry and wet macular degeneration is essential for understanding the risks and treatment options.
Dry Macular Degeneration
Dry macular degeneration is the most common form, accounting for about 85–90% of cases. It occurs when the macula thins with age, leading to gradual vision loss. This type progresses slowly, often making it less noticeable in the early stages. Around 10% of people who have dry AMD will develop wet AMD.
Wet Macular Degeneration
Wet macular degeneration is less common, accounting for 10–15% of cases, but more severe. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak fluid or blood, leading to rapid vision loss. Early detection can show fluid buildup around the retina and waste deposits around the macula. Other signs may include a gray or green discoloration from the bleeding.
Identifying Early Warning Signs of Macular Degeneration
While you may not experience many early signs or symptoms of macular degeneration, your eye doctor can identify small yellow deposits or drusen in the retina. Dry macular degeneration progresses slowly, while wet macular degeneration advances quickly, requiring immediate attention. Recognizing the signs of macular degeneration can lead to prompt diagnosis and treatment, potentially preserving vision for longer.
Early Signs of Intermediate Stage AMD
One of the earliest signs of macular degeneration in the intermediate stage is blurred or distorted vision. This can also happen when looking at straight lines. If straight lines appear wavy or crooked, it’s essential to seek an eye exam promptly. Colors may also appear dull, dark, or less vivid.
Struggling to see in dim or low lighting or requiring brighter light for activities like reading can indicate macular degeneration. This symptom often goes unnoticed but is a significant early warning sign.
Another sign of macular degeneration is noticing dark, blurry, or empty areas in the center of your vision. These spots can grow darker or larger over time if not addressed promptly and can occur in one or both eyes.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis of macular degeneration is critical for timely intervention, such as managing the condition effectively and potentially slowing the condition’s progression to reduce the risk of vision loss and preserve vision quality.
Diagnosis of AMD includes an Amsler grid test consisting of a grid of straight lines. If the lines appear distorted or curved, it may indicate early signs of AMD. Another test to diagnose AMD is fluorescein angiography, which uses a dye to evaluate the blood vessels in the retina for leakage in wet AMD.
Treatment for Macular Degeneration
Treatment for AMD can depend on your age, health, severity of the condition, and tolerance for medications, procedures, or therapies. There is no cure for dry macular degeneration. However, there are things you can do to adjust to living with AMD, such as vision rehabilitation programs and low-vision devices.
Treatment for wet AMD can slow its progression and preserve vision. These treatments include injections of medications called anti-VEGF agents that help to reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and laser therapy to seal leaking blood vessels.
Early detection is crucial for the effectiveness of these treatments.
However, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help slow down the progression of AMD.
Preserve Your Vision with Early Signs
Macular degeneration is a serious eye condition that can significantly impact your vision and quality of life. By understanding the early warning signs, prioritizing regular eye exams, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, you can preserve your vision and reduce the risk of severe vision loss.
If you notice any symptoms or have concerns about your eye health, schedule an eye exam with Bluebird Vision + Wellness.
