The macula is the area of the retina responsible for fine vision. Macular degeneration (MD) is a disease caused by impaired macula function. Age-related MD, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a common eye disease affecting vision in middle-aged and elderly people. Most patients are over 50 years old, and central vision is severely affected.
AMD can be divided into two main types:
Dry MD: The more common type
With aging, the photoreceptor cells in the macula gradually thin and atrophy. At the same time, yellow deposits called drusen may form on the retina. These changes lead to a gradual deterioration of macula function and a slow decline in central vision.
Symptoms: Early symptoms are usually subtle, with only mild blurred vision, like a veiled haze. With aging or as the disease progresses, vision gradually deteriorates, becoming increasingly severe, and fixed dark shadows may appear before the eyes.
Wet MD: This accounts for a smaller number of cases, but the damage to vision is more severe and rapid.
The primary characteristic is the development of abnormal new blood vessels in the macula. These vessels are extremely fragile and easily leak blood or fluid, leading to swelling, swelling, and scarring of the macula.
Symptoms: Patients experience distortion or distortion of straight lines, a sudden and dramatic decrease in central vision, and noticeable dark shadows or blind spots.
Reminder! Because wet macular degeneration progresses rapidly, early detection and prompt treatment are crucial. Regular eye examinations are recommended, especially for those at high risk with a family history of the condition.
