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What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration is a deterioration or breakdown of the macula. The macula is a small area in the retina that allows fine details to be seen. There are different kinds of macular problems, but the most common is age related macular degeneration (ARMD).
What are the symptoms of ARMD?
ARMD causes a wide spectrum of visual decrease, ranging from a slight haziness to loss of central vision. It may also cause dark areas or distortion of central vision. ARMD does not affect peripheral vision and thus, does not completely blind it's victims, but most activities that require fine vision are severly compromised.
What causes ARMD?
"Dry" ARMD is caused by aging and thinning of the tissues of the macula. This form of ARMD usually progresses slowly and decreases vision over many years.
"Wet" ARMD is caused by abnormal blood vessels that form underneath the retina in the macular area. These blood vessels are fragile and can leak blood or fluid and blur central vision. This form of ARMD usually occurs rapidly and causes severely decreased vision.
What are the treatments for ARMD?
Nutritional Supplements including antioxidant vitamins, zinc and lutein, have been proven helpful in slowing the progression of ARMD in some people. A recent study showed that when given a certain combination of vitamins, participants at risk to develop advanced stages of ARMD lowered that risk by 25%.
Laser surgery and Photodynamic therapy are used to treat "wet" ARMD. A focused beam of light is applied to the leaking blood vessels and helps decrease or stop the blood and fluid from damaging the retina. These procedures will not restore sight lost to ARMD but it will preserve the sight that is left.
Losing central vision can be devastating to patients, but there are many organizations and tools available to help. Ophthalmologist's can refer patients to low vision specialists with a wide selection of devices, support systems, and rehabilitation services. The most important factor is patient attitude. We have found patients that keep a positive attitude tend to adjust better to the situation and lead healthier more productive lives.
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