AGE RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION

What is it?

As the name implies, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when the macula degenerates with increasing age. The macula is located in the center of the retina and provides information for fine, detailed vision when you look straight ahead. Damage to the macula results in problems with central vision.
The exact cause of AMD is not known. For some reason, the macula fails to receive the nutrients it needs to survive and it degenerates.

Symptoms

AMD may cause:

Problems reading books

Washed out colors

Blindspots in the central visual field

Risk Factors

Gender: women may be at greater risk than men.

Smoking: smoking may increase the risk of AMD.

Family History: AMD may run in families.

Cholesterol: people with high levels of blood cholesterol may be at higher risk for AMD.

Diagnosis

Eye examination: an eye doctor will look for problems with the macula.

Fluorescein angiography: an intravenous dye is injected into a patient. Photographs are taken as the dye passes through retinal blood vessels.

Treatment

Photocoagulation: a laser is used to destroy abnormal blood vessels that develop in the macula.

Charles Bonnet Syndrome

People who suffer from Macular Degeneration may also suffer from Charles Bonnet Syndrome.