Age Related Macular Degeneration in India

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What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration encompasses various pathological yet prevalent conditions that impact the macula, leading to a decline in central vision. This degeneration occurs as a specific region of the retina undergoes deterioration. The macula plays a crucial role in tasks such as reading small prints, interpreting street signs, and even threading a needle.

Age-related macular degeneration, as the name suggests, is linked to the natural aging process, making it prevalent among older individuals. Among various macular issues, age-related macular degeneration is the most commonly observed. Symptoms of macular degeneration include distorted or dark areas in central vision, permanent central vision loss, and blurriness. It's worth noting that peripheral vision remains unaffected by macular degeneration.

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

This eye disease impacts the macula, a crucial part of the retina responsible for sending light signals to the brain for clear vision. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) manifests in two forms: wet and dry. The progression of AMD is often gradual, making it challenging to detect changes in vision. However, there are instances where AMD advances rapidly, leading to vision loss in both eyes. AMD stands as the primary cause of vision impairment in older individuals, affecting central vision necessary for activities like sewing, driving, and reading.

Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

  • The appearance of an empty or dark area in the center of vision.
  • Gradual vision loss poses difficulty in seeing objects clearly.
  • Straight lines appear crooked or wavy.
  • Objects appear distorted in shape.
  • Loss of clear color vision.

Causes of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

  • Smoking : Indeed, smoking heightens the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Interestingly, studies have shown that ceasing smoking can contribute to a reduction in the likelihood of developing AMD. Making the choice to quit smoking can positively impact eye health and decrease the risk of AMD.

  • What to Eat : For individuals with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the progression of the condition can be mitigated by incorporating zinc and vitamins A, C, and E into their dietary supplements. These nutrients have been found to be beneficial in managing AMD and slowing down its advancement.

  • Age : Absolutely, age is considered a significant factor in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The natural aging process is closely associated with the occurrence of AMD, highlighting the importance of age as a prime factor in this condition.

  • Sunlight : Certainly, excessive exposure to sunlight is recognized as a factor that can increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Protecting the eyes from prolonged sunlight exposure can contribute to reducing the chances of developing AMD.

  • Genes : Certainly, the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is influenced by genetic factors. In some individuals, specific genes are associated with an increased susceptibility to AMD. Understanding the genetic component can be crucial in assessing the risk and potential preventive measures for AMD.

  • Gender : Indeed, studies have indicated that women may have a higher likelihood of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) compared to men. Gender can play a role in the prevalence of AMD, with women being more susceptible to this condition.

Diagnosis of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Signs and symptoms of the initial phase of macular degeneration can be observed. An optometrist will assess the eyes through a thorough eye examination and additional tests to ascertain the status of macular degeneration.

Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Dry AMD, the most prevalent form of age-related macular degeneration, is considered the least severe. Insufficient nutrients causing damage to macula cells can lead to the accumulation of waste products called drusens, ultimately giving rise to dry AMD. The decline in vision occurs gradually over several years. In rare instances, individuals with dry AMD may progress to developing wet AMD. The three stages of dry AMD are :

  • Early AMD
  • Intermediate AMD
  • Advanced dry AMD

Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Wet AMD arises from the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula, causing damage to its cells. This form is considered the most severe, in contrast to dry AMD.

Treatment for Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Dry AMD currently lacks a cure, but the use of a magnifying lens can aid in easier reading. In contrast, there are treatment options available for wet AMD, including :

  • Laser Surgery : This treatment is not widely employed. It involves directing a laser beam at the newly formed blood vessels in the eye to eliminate them.

  • Injections : To impede the progression of wet AMD, drugs are injected into the eye. Excessive levels of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) are released, contributing to the growth of new abnormal blood vessels. Anti-VEGF injection therapy is employed to counteract the effects of VEGF, and multiple injections may be necessary for this treatment.

  • Photodynamic Therapy : Photodynamic treatment involves laser treatment of selected retinal areas. Verteporfin, a drug, is injected into the arm's vein, traveling through the bloodstream. A laser beam is then directed into the eye by the doctor to activate the drug within the blood vessels. Upon activation, the drug destroys newly formed blood vessels, consequently reducing the rate of vision loss.

Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Both advanced dry and wet forms collectively referred to as advanced AMD can manifest in one eye with one or more forms, or in the same eye. This condition leads to significant vision loss.

Benefits of Early Detection of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Detecting AMD in its early stages enhances the likelihood of preventing vision loss. The effectiveness of treatments tends to be higher when AMD is diagnosed early.

Cost of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

The cost of AMD treatment in India is considerably more affordable compared to other developed countries worldwide. The treatment for AMD varies depending on the stage of the disease.

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