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Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) accounts for almost 50% of those registered as sight impaired in the UK, with an estimated half a million people having some degree of the condition in the UK.
Dry AMD is caused by the gradual break down of light-sensitive cells in the macula over several years. Wet AMD is caused by the growth of blood vessels underneath the macula, which can leak or cause scarring.
The macula is a 5mm part of the retina at the back of the eye. It is responsible for all of our central vision, most of our colour vision and the fine detail/ clarity of what we see. It contains a high concentration of photoreceptor cells that detect light and send signals to the brain, these then interprets them as images. The rest of the retina processes our peripheral (side) vision. Macular disease causes loss of central vision. It is not known why this is, but it tends to happen as people get older.
What are the common triggers/ risk factors of Macular Degeneration?
- Age
- Smoking
- Gender
- Family history
- Race
- Obesity
As it's an age-related process, it usually involves both eyes, although they may not be affected at the same time.
What are the symptoms of Macular Degeneration?
- Often a blurred/ distorted area in your vision
- Seeing straight lines as wavy or crooked
- Objects looking smaller than normal
- Colours seeming less bright than they use too
AMD isn't painful and doesn't affect the appearance of your eye but it can make things like reading, watching TV, driving or recognising faces difficult.
However, AMD can be a huge problem if you drive as it can make it unsafe. You are required by law to tell the DVLA if your condition affects both eyes or if it only affects 1 eye but your remaining vision is below the min standard for driving.
Treatments and Costs
If you're worried about your eye,
- Book an appointment with your optometrist or GP.
Your optometrist will be able to advise on adjustments you can make to your lifestyle to lower your risk of macular degeneration, such as nutritional supplements to slow the progression of the condition.
If there are signs of wet macular degeneration, your optometrist will refer you to the hospital for prompt treatment.
What else can you do to keep your eyes healthy?
- Eat a balanced diet
- Exercise regulary
- Lose weight if you are over weight
- Stop smoking if you smoke
