Age-related Macular Degeneration
Age-related Macular Degeneration (pronounced: eyj-ri-ley-tid mak-yuh-ler dih-jen-uh-rey-shuhn) is a medical condition which usually affects older adults and results in a loss of vision in the center of the visual field (the macula) because of damage to the retina. It is a major cause of blindness and visual impairment in older adults (>50 years). Macular degeneration can make it difficult or impossible to read or recognize faces, although enough peripheral vision remains to allow other activities of daily life.
Etymology
The term "Age-related Macular Degeneration" is derived from its primary characteristic and the area it affects. "Age-related" refers to the fact that the disease primarily affects those who are older, "Macular" refers to the macula part of the eye which is affected, and "Degeneration" refers to the process of deterioration that these areas undergo.
There are two types of Age-related Macular Degeneration: Dry Macular Degeneration and Wet Macular Degeneration. Dry Macular Degeneration is the more common of the two types, accounting for 85-90% of cases. Wet Macular Degeneration is less common but more severe, and it is responsible for approximately 90% of severe vision loss from the disease.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of Age-related Macular Degeneration is blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field. Other symptoms may include distortions such as straight lines appearing wavy, reduced central vision in one or both eyes, and changes in perception of color.
Treatment
While there is no cure for Age-related Macular Degeneration, treatment can slow the progression and prevent severe loss of vision. Treatments for the disease include Anti-angiogenic drugs, Laser therapy, and Photodynamic laser therapy.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for Age-related Macular Degeneration include regular eye exams, eating a healthy diet high in leafy green vegetables and fish, not smoking, and controlling other medical conditions such as hypertension and cholesterol.
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