Age related macular degeneration
- Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition which occurs commonly in people over 60 years of age and is one of the most common causes of poor vision in elderly Europeans.
- Lining the inside of the eyes is the retina, which is a photo sensitive layer comparable to a photographic film. A tiny 5mm diameter part of the retina, called the macula, is responsible for sharp visual acuity and colour vision.
- Several degenerative processes may affect the macula. In the case of age related macular degeneration, increasing age is the main causative factor.
- The degeneration involves weakening of certain supportive layers in the macula and the accumulation of metabolic waste products. These yellowish white deposits resemble calcification and are often referred to as such.
- The most common complication is the development of new, abnormal blood vessels which are fragile and easily leak and bleed (so-called neovascular membranes).
- The early symptoms of macular degeneration are deterioration of visual acuity and distortion of images. AT WORST complete loss of central vision may occur, with the patient seeing a dark spot central to the visual field.
- Darkness and light and forms may still be well differentiated and a measure of colour vision may be retained. Both eyes are usually affected, one eye typically more advanced that the other.
- Unfortunately reading, sewing and other tasks requiring sharp visual acuity, become impossible.
- On the other hand macular degeneration per se never causes total blindness and patients often function well and independently within familiar surroundings. Unfortunately driving a motor vehicle is mostly not possible.
- Therapeutic options available to treat this condition are very limited. Neither spectacles nor surgery or medication can stop the degeneration.
- Neovascular membranes may under certain circumstances be treated with laser. Surgical removal of these membranes is being done in selected cases with limited success.
- Generally vision is monitored with a Amsler chart and sudden significant changes in visual acuity and/or distortion on the Amsler chart call for evaluation and possible treatment by an eye specialist. Spectacles and so called low vision aids (including various magnifiers) are also of some value.
- Lastly, it is important to note that age is virtually the only causative factor and no amount of reading, sewing or other activities add to this.
- Once this condition has been diagnosed, it is equally important to note that there is no limitation to the use of your eyes and you should confidently engage in any activity your eye allows.