What is macular degeneration ?

See below: Age-related macular degeneration (amd) is a retinal condition which affects older adults and results in a loss of vision in the center of the visual field (the macula). There are “dry” and “wet” forms. It is a top cause of blindness and visual impairment in older adults (>50 years) in industrialized countries.

Many: Age related macular degeneration (amd) is a leading cause of visual loss in the elderly population. Treatment depends on type and severity of amd. The symptoms are highly variable also: mild to moderate blurring in central areas of vision, distortion of images, haziness. Sometimes, in early stages, pt do not yet have symptoms.

Eye Exam: Dry and wet AMD are diagnosed by a good Ophthalmic exam. If you have any vision loss or problems, you should be seen by an ophthalmologist or retinal specialist as soon as possible. In the dry form there are changes in the back of the eye readily seen and in the wet form you can have sudden loss of vision which is treatable if seen ASAP. AMD usually occurs past the age of 50.

Not much!: Control high blood pressure, do not smoke, avoid sun light uv light exposure and take vitamin supplements (see areds2). Have an examination and follow with a good eye specialist and possibly retina specialist.

Vitamin therapy. : Macular degeneration is age-related in susceptible individuals. There is no cure for it, but there are vitamins and nutrients that have been shown to decrease the risk of progression in large studies. The most recently recommended vitamin supplements are called areds2 and can be bought over the counter in various brands, such as ocuvite.