Macular Degeneration Awareness

February is considered age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) month sponsored by Prevent Blindness America.  Currently, over 2 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with some form of ARMD, with over 20% of people over the age of 75 affected. This disease is the leading cause of central vision loss in Americans over the age of 50.  

ARMD affects central vision due to degenerative waste products, called drusen, that build up in the back layer of the retina. There are three main forms of ARMD: dry (or nonexudative), geographic atrophy, or the more serious form referred to as wet (or exudative). Currently the best way to decrease the chance of progression of the disease is by taking supplements as described by the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS2).  Specifically these supplements are vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc, and cupric oxide. The newest study is looking at the effects of lutein and zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids.  

In addition to taking supplements, there are other important recommendations to reduce the risk and development of the disease process. Smoking cessation and ultraviolet light protection are two main considerations. Optimal management of systemic conditions, such as hypertension, high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease, will also reduce your risk.  

Coastal Woods Vision is very excited to now offer OCT technology to diagnose ARMD earlier and monitor for changes over time. The OCT has the ability to take measurements in microns and displays the multiple layers of the retina in better detail than can be detected by standard dilation and fundus photography alone.  Schedule your appointment soon so we can demonstrate this technology for you.