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Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a kind of damage to the retina that results in reduced vision in the center of one's visual field.

Recently Answered Questions

What is macular degeneration?
2 Expert Answers
Most Recent Answer
by Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum
The macula is in the central part of the retina that is used for more detailed vision, so it tends to affect the center of our visual field. As it has the largest concentration of cells, it also needs more oxygen then the rest of the retina. "Age-Related Macular Degeneration" (ARMD) is a degenerative condition of the macula. It is the most common cause of vision loss in the United States in those...
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Who gets AMD (age-related macular degeneration)?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
As the name suggests, AMD is more common in older adults. In fact, it is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over age 60. AMD might be hereditary, meaning it can be passed on from parents to children. If someone in your family has or had the condition, you might be at higher risk for developing the disease. Talk to your eye doctor about your individual risk.
What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
AMD often does not have symptoms and is unrecognized until it affects both eyes. The first sign of AMD is usually distortion of straight lines. This might progress to a gradual loss of central vision. Symptoms of AMD include: Straight lines start to appear distorted, or the center of vision becomes distorted. Dark, blurry areas or white-outs appear in the center of vision. Diminished or chang...
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How is macular degeneration diagnosed?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
One of the most common early signs of AMD is the presence of drusen — tiny yellow deposits under the retina. Your doctor can see these during a routine eye exam. Your doctor might also ask you to look at an Amsler grid — a pattern of straight lines that resemble a checkerboard. Some of the straight lines might appear wavy to you, or you might notice that some of the lines are missing. These ca...
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What treatments are available for macular degeneration?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
There is currently no cure for AMD, but treatments might prevent severe vision loss and slow the progression of the disease considerably. Several options are available, including: Vitamins — Vitamins C, E, beta carotene, zinc, and copper have been shown to decrease the risk of vision loss in patients with intermediate to advanced dry AMD. Ask your eye doctor if these vitamin supplements will b...
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What is the outlook for people with AMD?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
Unfortunately, AMD can recur even after successful treatment. The various procedures, however, can slow the rate of vision loss and hopefully preserve some sight.
How is UV radiation bad for your eyes?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Dr. Mehmet Oz
UV radiation can cause oxidative stress, which damages vision by clouding our lens and burning through the delicate film and cells of our retina. Prime example: Portland, Oregon, gets a little more than half as much sunlight as Atlanta, and Atlanta eyes have more damage. Radiation has a big impact on your eyes by oxidizing the pigments in the retina and decreasing the antioxidants in the thin, y...
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How serious are cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Healthy Humans
A prior article discussed two eye problems to consider: conjunctivitis and dry eyes. This article focuses on three others that should be considered: cataracts, glaucoma, and maculardegeneration. Cataracts: Opacification of the normally clear lens of the eye. Since the lens of the eye has no blood vessels or nerves it accumulates sun damage that cannot readily be cleared. Carnosine eye drops have...
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What are natural treatments for macular degeneration?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum
A number of studies have shown that good nutrition can slow or prevent the development of macular degeneration. It has been proven that people with diets high in fruits and vegetables (especially leafy green vegetables and colorful berries) have a lower incidence of macular degeneration. This is also helped by high levels of the nutrient flavonoids, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin (both found i...
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How can I prevent macular degeneration (MD)?
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Dr. Michael Roizen
I know how you feel. My peepers are key. First things first, if you smoke, QUIT! Smoking impedes circulation to your eye, reducing the amount of oxygen your eye receives and damaging the delicate and essential blood vessels. For you men out there, if smoking constricts the blood vessels in your eye, it also constricts the blood vessels in an even more important part of your body. Some other thin...
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