Macular degeneration is an eye condition affecting the central vision. This means that people with macular degeneration fail to see what may be right before them. It’s predominantly an age-related condition, typically occurring in people over 50. It affects the retina’s central part, the macula, but those with it do not have complete vision loss, as they can still see things on the side. This article lists the treatment, causes, and symptoms of macular degeneration. Macular degeneration symptoms People do not show any noticeable signs or symptoms in the early stages. Moreover, it may not even get diagnosed until it aggravates or affects both eyes. During this phase, one may experience the below-listed symptoms: One may notice deteriorating vision wherein everything looks blurry. One may also find it hard to recognize faces, read the fine print, or drive. One may notice different or worse color perception. Straight lines may look curvy or wavy. One may notice blurry, dark areas in the vision’s center. Those who experience or notice the symptoms mentioned above should immediately consult a doctor. Causes Unfortunately, experts do not know the exact cause of AMD, and there is no clarity on what triggers AMD in some people over others.

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that makes the central vision blurry. It typically affects people over 60. While the condition can worsen over time, it often does not cause absolute vision loss. It affects the central portion of the retina, which is a layer behind the eyeball containing light-sensitive cells that allow one to see. So, when affected, one might have trouble recognizing faces, reading, and driving; however, their peripheral vision stays intact. Causes While macular degeneration can be an inherited eye condition, it may develop without a family history of the condition. Here, the macula begins to deteriorate, often due to aging. This is called age-related macular degeneration or AMD). Alternatively, one can be at risk of macular degeneration due to factors like unhealthy eating habits, infections, head injuries, and diabetes. Symptoms The macula in the eye is responsible for sending pictures from the optic nerve to the brain. When the macula is damaged, the brain cannot read or understand the images that the eyes capture. Most people with macular degeneration do not experience symptoms until the disease worsens. However, over time, the following symptoms can be observed:  – Poor and blurry vision – Inability to see in low light – Changes or issues in the way one perceives colors – Dark or blank spots in the field of vision – Straight lines may begin to seem wavy or curving Management options When detected early, it may be possible to reverse macular degeneration.

The macula is a crucial component of the retina that plays a crucial role in clear vision, enabling people to see objects straight ahead. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that compromises the macula, manifesting in two main forms – dry and wet AMD. Although there’s no cure for wet macular degeneration, timely diagnosis and treatment can delay its progression and potentially restore lost vision. Continue reading to explore wet macular degeneration treatments. Prescription treatments Some prescription treatments aim to cease the growth of new blood vessels. They address the biological factors contributing to abnormal blood vessel growth. Besides this, prescription remedies also aim to target the pathways involved in the progression of the disease, stabilize vision, and reduce leakage of blood or fluid. A healthcare professional will suggest or adjust prescription treatments based on the patient’s response and the condition’s severity. Therapies A few therapies can also help relieve or control wet macular degeneration symptoms. These include- Photodynamic therapy-  Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment for wet AMD that involves a combination of a light-sensitive substance and laser treatment. This therapy aims to address abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina and helps cure irregular blood   vessel growth.

It is possible to slow down and prevent the progression of age-related macular degeneration by altering nutrient intake. A meal plan rich in vegetables and fruits containing yellow, orange, and green pigments is recommended. Additionally, it is important to include omega-3 fatty acids in daily routine in addition to any ongoing treatments for dry macular degeneration. Studies have shown that certain minerals and vitamins can also help prevent macular degeneration. Foods to eat Colorful leafy vegetables Macula has antioxidants (carotenoids)—red and yellow pigments that guard the photoreceptor cells vital for vision. So, eating vegetables with carotenoids (mainly zeaxanthin and lutein) helps boost the degree of protective pigment around the macula and can slow or prevent AMD. To amplify the carotenoid intake with veggies, opt for bright yellow, dark green, or red ones. Some top options that can supplement dry macular degeneration treatments are collard greens, spinach, kale, broccoli, sweet potatoes, corn, and orange and red carrots and peppers. Nuts and seeds These are rich in vitamin E, which helps boost eye health. Among the nuts, the two best alternatives are hazelnuts and almonds. They have a high vitamin E content and can protect eye health because of their rich antioxidant benefits.