Treating Macular Degeneration in Edmonton
Macular degeneration refers to the deterioration of the macula, the small central area of the retina in your eye which controls visual acuity. It is the most common cause of blindness! The early stages of macular degeneration do not affect vision, but if the disease progresses, you may experience wavy, blurred, or a complete loss of vision.
Behind the retina there is another tissue layer which is partly responsible for feeding the retina. Over time, this layer can weaken and develop holes and cracks which starve the portions of the retina directly in front of it. This starved retina eventually loses its sensitivity to light and central vision slowly deteriorates. This is known as the “dry form” of macular degeneration. As time goes on, weak blood vessels grow through these cracks and bleed, causing large areas of scarring in the retina. This is known as the “wet form”. Genetics, age, nutrition, smoking and exposure to the sun may cause this condition. Connect with Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. in Edmonton, Leduc, or Westlock for more details!
Types of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Learn more about the two types of macular degeneration:
Dry Macular Degeneration
Dry Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. This condition is the most common form of AMD and accounts for approximately 90% of AMD cases. Dry AMD occurs when light-sensitive cells in the macula gradually break down, leading to blurry or distorted central vision. One of the earliest signs of Dry AMD is the accumulation of drusen, which are tiny yellow deposits under the retina that can interfere with its function. As the disease progresses, fine details become harder to see, making activities like reading, recognizing faces, and driving more challenging. While Dry AMD does not cause total blindness, it can significantly impact quality of vision!
Wet Macular Degeneration
Wet Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD) is a more severe and fast-progressing form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that can cause sudden and significant vision loss. Unlike Dry AMD, which progresses gradually, Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and macula. These fragile blood vessels leak fluid and blood, leading to swelling, scarring, and damage to retinal cells. This process distorts central vision, causing blurry or wavy vision, blind spots, and, in advanced cases, severe central vision loss. Early detection is critical, as prompt treatment—including anti-VEGF injections to slow blood vessel growth—can help preserve vision and prevent further damage. While Wet AMD does not lead to complete blindness, it can significantly impact daily activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
Causes & Symptoms of AMD
You are likely to see signs of this disease. Some of the symptoms include:
- Fuzzy vision
- Straight lines
- Blurry areas on a printed page
Age is a common risk factor behind AMD, and it may occur during middle age. Other reasons to get this disease include smoking, obesity and high blood pressure.
Contact Us For Treatment in Edmonton, Leduc, or Westlock
If you are suffering from macular degeneration, get in touch with us and we will assist you!
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