What is the macula?
The macula is the center of the retina (the inside “wallpaper” lining the back of your eye functioning like a 35mm Kodak film) and is responsible for central vision. The retina turns the light you see into electrical signals that your brain interprets to create vision. You need the macula to clearly see directly in front of you (such as looking at faces or to drive).
What is macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that gradually destroys sharp, central vision over time. There are two forms of AMD. About 90% of patients have dry AMD and the remaining 10% have wet AMD.
- AMD affects the macula and causes no pain.
- In most cases, AMD advances so slowly that people notice little change in their vision. This is more common with dry AMD.
- In others, the disease progresses faster and may lead to a loss of vision in both eyes. This is more likely to occur with wet AMD.
- AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older.
How soon should I call my Doctor if I have age-related macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration can either be gradual or more rapidly progressive. Usually, you will notice an increase in blurry vision over time. It is important to have regular eye exams if you have AMD or have risk factors for AMD. If you notice a sudden change in vision, call your regular eye doctor or Dr. Tieu to schedule an appointment.
What can I do to improve my macular degeneration?
You should have regular eye examinations and adhere to the following recommendations:
- Do not use tobacco products (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco)
- Eat a balanced diet with lots of leafy green vegetables
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses while outdoors
- Take AREDS II eye vitamins. It may lower your odds of getting AMD, according to the Age-Related Eye Disease Study.
- Check your sight daily by looking at an Amsler grid -- a pattern of straight lines like graph paper. It can help you spot changes in your vision.
Do shots in the eye cure macular degeneration?
The shots help control the abnormal blood vessels in wet macular degeneration and may improve or preserve your eyesight, but they do not cure the degeneration.
Should I take eye vitamins even if I don't have macular degeneration?
Dr. Tieu can tell you if he thinks they will help. Eye vitamins have certain minerals and vitamins that have been shown in clinical studies to improve eye health for many patients. Eye vitamins do not prevent or cure macular degeneration.
Will eye supplements cure my macular degeneration?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for age-related macular degeneration, but there are ways you can help slow down the progression. Two large clinical trials have shown that eye vitamins, currently AREDS II, may help reduce the chances of developing advanced macular degeneration and vision loss in some patients. Ask Dr. Tieu about your type and stage of AMD and if supplements may be right for you.
Will eating carrots help my eyes?
Although carrots are good for general health, they will not specifically improve your vision.
I have family members with macular degeneration. Do I need to have an eye exam?
Regular yearly dilated eye exams are important for everyone, especially patients who have a potentially higher risk for eye problems, such as those with certain medical problems or a family history of certain eye diseases. That way, if you are diagnosed with a treatable disease, you can start treatment early.