What is Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the small central area of the retina responsible for sharp, clear vision. It is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults and can greatly impact daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. There are two main forms of macular degeneration: dry and wet.
Dry AMD (non-neovascular)
Dry AMD is the most typical form of the disease, comprising about 85% -90% of all cases of AMD. It is defined by blurred main vision or blind spots, as the macula begins to weaken. Dry AMD is an early stage of the illness and is less serious than the damp kind.
Dry AMD takes place when the aging tissues of the macula begin to thin out and break down. Tiny pieces of white or yellowish protein called drusen begin to appear, which are thought to be deposited from the macular tissue as it degrades. The appearance of these drusen is typically what leads to a medical diagnosis of AMD throughout an eye exam.
With dry AMD vision loss takes place gradually, nevertheless, the dry type can progress to wet AMD rapidly.
There is presently no cure for dry AMD, nevertheless, there is a research study that shows that some individuals can benefit from additional vitamin treatment including antioxidants, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
Wet AMD (neovascular)
Wet AMD is less common occurring in only about 10 percent of those with AMD. AMD is classified as Wet AMD when irregular capillaries begin to grow under the retina and leak fluid and blood into the macula, resulting in blind spots and a loss of main vision. Wet AMD can cause more damage to vision and long-term scarring if not treated quickly, so any sudden blur in vision must be evaluated instantly, especially if one is aware that they have AMD. Generally, vision loss happens faster and is more noticeable than in dry AMD so the quicker it is treated, the more vision you can preserve.