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Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease causing loss of central vision amongst older people. It is currently the leading cause of irreversible blindness in Australia with 37% of registerable blindness being due to AMD and 21% to glaucoma. Early signs of the disease are present in 15% of those older than 50 years.
It results from changes to the macula, the part of the retina responsible for clear, sharp vision. The macula is used for seeing detail when reading, writing, watching television and recognising faces. Someone with macular degeneration experiences a loss of central vision whilst peripheral (outer) vision remains normal. There are several causes of macular degeneration. In the most common type, the tissue of the macula stops working effectively because the tiny blood vessels fail to nourish it properly. For most people, this is part of the ageing process. Smoking is a major factor contributing to the early development of age-related macular degeneration. Other causes of macular degeneration include hereditary and environment, cardiovascular disease, iris colour, light exposure, and a low intake of antioxidant vitamins. Macular degeneration can occur in young people because of inherited (genetic) disorders. No treatment is available for these conditions. In another type of macular degeneration, newly formed blood vessels leak into the retinal tissue and cause more sudden and severe vision loss. When detected early, this condition can be treated with laser therapy to seal the leaks and disperse the fluid. Some of the common symptoms are: - a gradual decrease in the ability to see objects clearly
- distorted vision, whereby straight lines look wavy
- blurry or dimmer areas blocking the central field of vision
- colour vision may dim
Early detection of the latter type of macular degeneration is important in determining whether the condition can be treated effectively. While treatment may not be generally be available for AMD, there is a great deal of rehabilitation help available from low vision clinics. This helps people maintain their independence and continue living active lives with a vision loss. The impact of vision problems: Age-related macular degeneration has extensive implications. People who have it cannot read or see detail on the TV or recognise faces. They find simple tasks more difficult and are at increased risk as a result of confusing medications or falling. Their visual impairment will render them unable to drive and they lose their independence. They may require residential care earlier than if their vision was normal. Article #8019 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
