Macular Degeneration
Early Detection and Treatment Are Essential
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration (Age-related Macular Degeneration, AMD) is a condition in which degeneration occurs in the macula, the central part of the retina, leading to progressive vision loss. It mainly occurs in people over 50 and is one of the most common causes of blindness in the elderly in developed countries.
The macula is responsible for over 90% of visual acuity and is essential for detailed visual tasks such as reading and recognizing faces. As macular degeneration progresses, the central visual field becomes blurry or distorted, causing serious impairment in daily life.
Types of Macular Degeneration
Dry Macular Degeneration
- Accounts for approximately 85-90% of all macular degeneration cases
- Drusen (waste deposits) accumulate in the macular area
- Vision loss progresses gradually
- May develop into geographic atrophy in severe cases
- No definitive cure exists, but progression can be slowed
Wet Macular Degeneration
- Accounts for approximately 10-15% of all macular degeneration cases
- Abnormal new blood vessels grow beneath the macula
- Hemorrhaging and fluid leakage from new blood vessels
- Causes rapid vision loss if left untreated
- Can be effectively treated with anti-VEGF injections when detected early
Key Symptoms
Amsler Grid Test
The Amsler grid is a simple self-diagnostic tool for macular degeneration. If lines appear bent, broken, or parts of the grid are not visible when looking at the center dot with one eye, a macular abnormality may be suspected. Please consult an eye specialist immediately.
Cover one eye and look at the center dot from 30cm away
Treatment Options
Anti-VEGF Injection
The primary treatment for wet macular degeneration, anti-VEGF drugs are injected directly into the eye to inhibit abnormal new blood vessel growth. Medications such as Lucentis, Eylea, and Avastin are used, and vision can be maintained or improved through regular injections.
- -Procedure time: approximately 5-10 minutes (under topical anesthesia)
- -Initial 3 consecutive injections, followed by observation to determine additional injections
- -Treatment response monitored through regular OCT examinations
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
A photosensitizing drug (Visudyne) is administered intravenously. When the drug accumulates in the abnormal blood vessels, a special laser is applied to selectively destroy only the abnormal vessels while minimizing damage to surrounding normal tissue. It is effective for certain types of macular degeneration.
Dry Macular Degeneration Management
Dry macular degeneration can be slowed through AREDS2 formula supplements (containing lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, etc.) and regular monitoring. Close observation for conversion to the wet type is essential.
Macular Degeneration Prevention Guidelines
Regular Check-ups
If you are over 50, have a fundus examination at least once a year.
Quit Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of macular degeneration by 2-3 times. Quitting is essential.
UV Protection
Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from ultraviolet radiation.
Balanced Diet
Consume foods rich in omega-3 and lutein, such as leafy green vegetables and fish.
Weight Management
Obesity is a risk factor for macular degeneration. Maintain a healthy weight.
Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Management
Hypertension and diabetes can accelerate the progression of macular degeneration.