| AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION |
Macular
Degeneration is an eye condition in which the macula, a sensitive area
in the retina responsible for central and detail vision, is damaged,
often causing loss of central vision.
Types
"Dry" form — the most common form usually progresses slowly and causes central vision loss.
"Wet"
form — rarer, and more severe. May progress rapidly causing significant
central vision loss.
Who Gets It?
Most common in people over 50, but can appear as early as age 40. As
life expectancy increases, the disease is becoming a significant problem.
Causes
No
conclusive proof exists. However, some scientists believe heredity may
play a part, as well as UV light exposure and nutrition.
Symptoms
Blurred
or fuzzy vision; straight lines, such as sentences on a page or telephone
poles, appear wavy; blind spot in the middle of vision.
Prevention
It is now recognised that a diet containing five daily portions of fruit and vegetables is protective for AMD. The role of dietary animal-derived fat is also important, although clear dietary advice is not yet available as to the balance of fats appropriate to prevent AMD.
We also know that hypertension (blood pressure) is a causitive factor, especially in women. Smoking is a potent risk factor for AMD of both types.
Treatment
"Dry" form — No proven effective treatment. Low vision
rehabilitation can help those with significant vision loss to maintain
excellent quality of life.
"Wet"
form — laser surgery or photodynamic therapy may help as well as
low vision rehabilitation.
Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the most promising new treatments
for the "wet" form of macular degeneration. It involves
the injection of Visudyne, into the bloodstream, followed by a brief
laser treatment. The laser "activates"
the drug, which helps destroy abnormal blood vessels in the eye that
damage the macula. Several treatments may be necessary for it to be
effective.
PDT may become more widely available to patients. However, it is not
a good choice for everyone. Your ophthalmologist can tell you if you
might be a good candidate for treatment.
Anti-VEGF Agents
Three newer drugs are now being used against Wet AMD. All three (Lucentis, Macugen
and Avastin) are given by injection into the eye using a very fine needle.
The injections need to be repeated every four to six weeks. If you are interested
in receiving treatment for AMD with one of these newer drugs, please
contact us to arrange a prior consultation.
Unproven
Treatments
Be wary of any treatment that promises to restore vision, cure or prevent
macular degeneration. There are many so-called "miracle cures"
advertised (often in magazines or on the Internet) that have not been
adequately tested for safety or efficacy. These treatments may be expensive
and are generally not covered by insurance.
Current
Research
There is a great deal of research and several major scientific studies
being conducted to find the causes and develop effective treatments
for all types of macular degeneration.
Low
Vision Rehabilitation
This can help people who have experienced mild to severe vision loss
adjust to their condition and continue to enjoy active and independent
lifestyles. Rehabilitation may involve anything from adjusting the lighting
in your home to learning to use low vision aids to help you read and
perform daily tasks.
Certain factors other than hereditary seem to play a role in the development of the disease.
For details of how to contact Mr. Horgan or to make an appointment
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