Macular Degeneration

About macular degeneration

Macular Degeneration is an age-related condition that mostly affects people who are over 50, and it is often called age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). The condition affects the central part of the retina, an area that is called the macula. It is the most common cause of loss of vision on older people. There are two forms of Macular Degeneration; these are ‘wet MD’ and ‘dry MD’.

Rapid diagnosis is critical. If you notice a sudden change in your vision, go without delay to your optometrist (optician) who should refer you direct to a retinal specialist.

Dry Macular Degeneration is much more common than wet Macular Degeneration. It is caused by a slow breakdown of cells in the macula and symptoms develop slowly and worsen over time.

For Dry Macular Degeneration change will be more gradual and a patient should receive an ophthalmic assessment within 3 months.

Wet Macular Degeneration is much less common than dry Macular Degeneration. It is caused by abnormal blood vessels in the retina which leak fluid and cause vision to become distorted. The condition can develop very quickly, and it can cause rapid and irreversible loss of vision.

For suspected Wet Macular Degeneration, a patient will be referred to a retinal clinic by their optician.

The symptoms of dry Macular Degeneration and wet Macular Degeneration are similar, except that in the case of dry Macular Degeneration symptoms tend to develop slowly, while in wet MD symptoms appear rapidly. Any of the following symptoms could be an indication that you are developing Macular Degeneration:
•Distortion of angles and straight lines
•Centre of your vision developing an almost opaque spot
•Objects appearing to be the wrong shape, size or colour
•Objects moving or disappearing

Treatment for Dry Macular Degeneration Bishopbriggs

Although it isn’t possible to reverse the symptoms of dry MD, they can be slowed down by changes to diet and lifestyle. It is important to have regular ophthalmic assessments of how the condition is progressing.

Wet MD can result in complete loss of central vision if left untreated, however there are a number of possible treatments.

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