Macular Degeneration: A Growing Issue for Seniors and the Leading Cause of Blindness in the U.S.

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Macular Degeneration: A Growing Issue for Seniors and the Leading Cause of Blindness in the U.S.

February is Macular Degeneration Awareness Month. Minnesota Optometric Association focuses on prevention.

More than 13 million Americans show some signs of macular degeneration-the #1 cause of vision loss in the United States. Because the symptoms usually do not appear in people under 55, the disorder is often referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). There is no known cure of the most common form, therefore, prevention, says the Minnesota Optometric Association should start young.

Macular degeneration is scarring of the macula, a spot about 1/16-inch in diameter at the center of the retina. The macula enables you to read, watch television, drive, sew-anything that requires focused, straight-ahead vision. Although the rest of the retina can continue to process images at the sides of your field of vision, the scarring distorts or obscures part of the central image that your eye transmits to your brain.

"The disorder occurs in two forms, dry and wet," says Dr. Dirk Colby, a family eye doctor in Golden Valley, MN, and president-elect of the Minnesota Optometric Association. "Most people with macular degeneration have the dry form, for which there is no known treatment. The less common wet form may respond to laser procedures, if diagnosed and treated early."

Preventative treatment, according to Dr. Colby is your best bet when it comes to AMD. "Recent research shows certain vitamins and minerals may help prevent or slow the progression of macular degeneration. And of course, we recommend annual comprehensive eye exams to maintain good eye health."

In fact, in two National Eye Institute studies, zinc and antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, were shown to have a positive effect on the progression of AMD. "Poor nutrition can also pose a risk for developing AMD," adds Dr. Colby. "So eating plenty of green leafy vegetables and fruits that contain antioxidants can help maintain healthy eyes."

Another possible cause for AMD could be long term exposure to direct sunlight, so wearing sunglasses all year round is smart when it comes to preventing eye problems.

Some common AMD symptoms are:

gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly
distorted vision
a gradual loss of color vision
a dark or empty area appearing in the center of vision

People experiencing any of these symptoms should contact their family eye doctor immediately for a comprehensive examination.

Central vision that is lost to macular degeneration cannot be restored. However, low vision devices such as telescopic and microscopic lenses can be prescribed to make the most out of remaining vision.

Please see your family eye doctor for further information. To locate a doctor in your area please click here.

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