Macular Degeneration

Understanding Macular Degeneration (AMD) Macular Degeneration, also known as Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss among people aged 50 and older. AMD affects the macula, a small part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision needed for activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces. As the macula deteriorates, it can lead to blurriness or a complete loss of central vision, severely impacting daily life.

At Sri Nirwana Netralaya Eye Hospital, we offer specialized services to diagnose, manage, and treat macular degeneration, helping you maintain your vision and quality of life.

Types of Macular Degeneration There are two main types of AMD:

• Dry AMD (Atrophic)
  • Dry AMD is the most common form, accounting for about 80-90% of cases. It occurs when the macula thins over time as part of the aging process, leading to gradual vision loss. Dry AMD typically progresses slowly, but it can still result in significant vision impairment if left untreated.
• Wet AMD (Neovascular)
  • Wet AMD is less common but more severe. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and macula, leaking fluid or blood and causing rapid and severe vision loss. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preserving vision in cases of wet AMD.

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration The symptoms of AMD can vary depending on the type and stage of the condition, but common signs include:

• Blurred or fuzzy vision
• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
• Dark or empty areas in the center of your vision
• Colors appearing less bright or vivid
• Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted (a sign of wet AMD)

Diagnosis and Evaluation Early detection of AMD is key to preventing severe vision loss. At Sri Nirwana Netralaya, we use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately detect and monitor AMD, including:

• Visual Acuity Test: Measures how well you can see at various distances.
• Amsler Grid Test: A simple test to detect vision changes related to AMD, such as distortion of straight lines.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): An imaging test that provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing us to detect early signs of AMD and monitor its progression.
• Fundus Photography: High-resolution imaging of the retina to document and track changes over time.
• Fluorescein Angiography: A dye is injected into the bloodstream, and photographs of the retina are taken to identify abnormal blood vessels in wet AMD.

Treatment Options for Macular Degeneration While there is no cure for AMD, there are several effective treatments available to slow its progression and preserve vision, especially in the case of wet AMD:

• Lifestyle Modifications

  • For patients with dry AMD, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in green leafy vegetables and fish, and controlling blood pressure can help slow the progression of the disease.

• Nutritional Supplements

  • The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) has shown that specific high-dose vitamins and minerals can reduce the risk of progression in intermediate or advanced dry AMD. These supplements typically include vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, and lutein.

• Anti-VEGF Injections

  • For wet AMD, anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections are the most common and effective treatment. These medications, such as Ranibizumab, Bevacizumab, or Aflibercept, are injected into the eye to block the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce fluid leakage, helping to stabilize and sometimes improve vision.

• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

  • PDT involves injecting a light-sensitive drug into the bloodstream, which then accumulates in the abnormal blood vessels under the retina. A laser is then used to activate the drug, destroying these abnormal vessels without damaging surrounding tissue.

• Laser Therapy

  • In some cases of wet AMD, laser photocoagulation may be used to seal off abnormal blood vessels. While this treatment can prevent further damage, it may also create blind spots in the treated areas, so it is used selectively.