How to Protect Yourself from Macular Degeneration
What is Macular Degeneration (MD)?
The macula is the central part of the retina, the light sensitive issue at the back of the eye. The retina processes all visual images. It is responsible for your ability to read, recognise faces, drive, and see colours clearly. MD causes progressive macular damage resulting in loss of central vision but the peripheral vision is not affected.
How common is MD?
MD is the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia. One in seven people over the age of 50 years is affected in some way and the incidence increases with age.
What are the types of MD?
There are two types of MD. The Dry form results in a gradual loss of central vision. The Wet form is characterised by a sudden loss of vision and is caused by abnormal blood vessels growing into the retina. Immediate medical treatment is essential if symptoms occur.
What are the risk factors?
MD is thought to be caused by genetic and environmental factors. People over the age of 50 years are at risk. If you smoke or have a family history of MD, your risk of developing the disease is much greater.
Eye health checklist
Have your eyes tested and make sure the macula is checked.
Do not smoke.
Keep a healthy lifestyle, control your weight, and exercise regularly.
Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Limit your intake of fats. Eat fish two or three times a week, eat dark green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit daily, and a handful of nuts a week.
In consultation with your doctor, consider taking a zinc and antioxidant supplement.
Provide adequate protection for your eyes from sunlight exposure, especially when young.
What treatments are available for MD?
Treatment options are dependent on the stage and type of disease. Current treatments aim to keep the best vision for as long as possible and in some cases may potentially provide visual improvement, but there is presently no cure. Early detection is vital in saving light.
Key symptoms may include one or more of the following:
Difficulty with reading or any other activity that requires fine vision.
Distortion, where straight lines appear wavy or bent.
Distinguishing faces becomes a problem.
Dark patches or empty spaces appear in the centre of your vision.
The need for increased illumination, sensitivity to glare, decreased night vision, and poor colour sensitivity may also indicate that there is something wrong. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your eye care specialist immediately.
Early detection is important
The early detection of any form of MD is crucial because the earlier you seek treatment; the more likely you are to have a better outcome compared to those who wait. MD can cause many different symptoms. Difficulty with your vision should not be dismissed as part of just ‘getting older’. In its early stages, MD may be noticed but it can be detected in an eye test before any visual symptoms occur. Early detection of changes can allow you to take steps to slow the progression of MD.
For more detailed information, please contact the MD Foundation on 1800 111 709 or visit www.mdfoundation.com.au
Source: MD Foundation, How’s your macula? Brochure
