Recognize signs of Macular Degeneration

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Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness for those over the age of 65. Millions of people face the grim prospect of losing their driving privileges, their mobility, and to a great extent their freedom, due to a deterioration in their eyesight or a disabling eye disease. Two portions a week of spinach, sorrel or beet tops reduces the risk of adult macular degeneration (AMD) by fifty percent

Macular Degeneration: The Complete Guide to Saving and Maximizing Your Sight

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How to recognize the signs of wet age-related macular degeneration before it's too late

Reversing Vision Loss - What is age-related macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a degenerative eye disease that affects the macula - the central part of the retina at the back of the eye that is responsible for the "straight ahead" central vision necessary for identifying faces and performing everyday activities like reading and driving. AMD is the most common cause of severe vision loss for Canadians over the age of 50. There are two types of AMD, dry and wet.

What are the symptoms of wet AMD?

Symptoms can include visual distortion such as things that should be straight appearing wavy or crooked. Or, you might see a blank spot in your visual field, or your vision might blur. As wet AMD progresses, the loss of central vision can be rapid and severe.

How quickly do patients lose sight?

Although it's impossible to predict when any one patient will experience vision loss, severe vision loss can happen in as quickly as a few weeks to months. Early detection is critical in order to start treatment that could help preserve or even improve deteriorating vision.

What can patients do to stop the progression of wet AMD?

Due to the rapid progression of wet AMD, it's important to get a diagnosis and treatment as quickly as possible to slow down and prevent the amount of vision loss. If you detect any changes in your vision, such as progressive visual distortions, a central spot that rapidly becomes blurry or a quick loss of central vision, schedule an eye exam immediately.

How is wet AMD treated?

Thanks to a new drug called "Lucentis" treatment for wet AMD has taken a giant step forward. This new drug does not only stop progression of wet AMD, but can also restore vision for some patients

As of today, Quebec and Ontario are the only two provinces where Lucentis is reimbursed, partially or completely, on public drug plans.

To learn more about wet AMD, please consult your physician or eye specialist.

Credit: News Canada

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