Macular degeneration is a condition that can cause vision loss, especially among older adults, and can’t be cured. Understanding its early warning signs, such as vision distortions, blank or dark spaces in your sight, and changes to colour perception, is essential for preserving vision.
At Oxford Optometry, we’re committed to helping you stay informed about your eye health and encouraging proactive care. In this article, you will learn the warning signs of macular degeneration, the types of macular degeneration, and what you can do to protect your vision.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for detailed, sharp vision. There are 2 primary types of macular degeneration:
- Dry Macular Degeneration: The most common form, marked by the thinning of the macula and the presence of small deposits called drusen.
- Wet Macular Degeneration: Less common but more severe, involving abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina, leading to fluid or blood leakage.
Macular degeneration is often referred to as age-related macular degeneration because it predominantly affects individuals over the age of 50, though other factors can increase risk.
Why Early Detection Matters
Macular degeneration progresses gradually in most cases, but early detection can slow its progression and sometimes preserve vision. Left untreated, the condition may lead to significant central vision loss, making everyday activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces challenging.
How to Use the Amsler Grid to Monitor Your Vision
The Amsler grid is a simple and effective tool to help detect changes in your central vision. By following these easy steps, you can monitor your eye health and identify any potential issues early:
- Prepare the grid: Use the Amsler grid in a well-lit environment. If you wear glasses for reading, be sure to have them on. Hold the grid 12 to 15 inches away from your face.
- Test one eye at a time: Cover one eye with your hand. With the uncovered eye, focus directly on the center dot of the grid.
- Observe your side vision: While keeping your gaze fixed on the center dot, notice the grid lines in your peripheral vision. Check if the lines appear straight and continuous or if any areas look blurry, wavy, dark, or blank.
- Repeat with the other eye: Cover the opposite eye and repeat the process.
Contact your optometrist immediately if any part of the grid looks unusual—such as lines appearing wavy or areas that seem blurry, dark, or missing.
Early Warning Signs of Macular Degeneration
Being aware of the early signs of macular degeneration can help you seek timely intervention:
Blurred or Distorted Vision
You may notice difficulty seeing fine details or reading small print.
Straight lines may appear wavy or distorted, which is particularly noticeable on grids or patterns.
Dark or Empty Areas in Central Vision
Central vision loss can create blind spots, making objects in the middle of your visual field disappear or appear dark.
Difficulty Adjusting to Low Light Levels
Tasks such as navigating dimly lit environments may become increasingly difficult.
Changes in Colour Perception
Colours may appear less vibrant or washed out over time.
Visual Hallucinations
Some individuals with advanced macular degeneration experience Charles Bonnet Syndrome, where they see patterns or objects that aren’t present.
Risk Factors for Macular Degeneration
While age is the primary risk factor, other risk factors to keep in mind include:
- Family history/genetics
- Smoking
- Prolonged UV exposure
- Poor diet lacking in essential nutrients
- Health conditions such as hypertension and obesity
When to See an Eye Doctor
Regular eye exams are crucial, particularly if you’re over 50 or have risk factors. At Oxford Optometry, our eye doctors use advanced diagnostic tools to detect macular degeneration early. These include:
- Visual Acuity Tests
- Amsler Grid Testing
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
If you notice any changes in your vision, it’s important to seek professional care promptly.
Managing & Treating Macular Degeneration
While there is no cure for macular degeneration, there are treatments that can help manage the condition and slow its progression.
For Dry Macular Degeneration:
- Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet that includes leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
- Supplements: Specific formulations such as those containing vitamins C and E, zinc, and lutein can help slow the progression.
- MacuMira: a breakthrough clinically proven, Health Canada-approved treatment that offers new hope for those seeking to slow the progression of dry age-related macular degeneration.
For Wet Macular Degeneration:
- Anti-VEGF injections: These medications block the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce fluid leakage, helping to stabilize or improve vision.
- Laser therapy: In some cases, targeted lasers destroy abnormal blood vessels and prevent further damage.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): A combination of light-sensitive medication and laser treatment to target and manage abnormal blood vessels.
- Assistive devices: Tools such as magnifiers, specialized glasses, or electronic reading aids can help maximize remaining vision.
Adopting healthy habits can also make a difference. Protect your eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses, avoid smoking, and maintain a balanced diet.
MacuMira
MacuMira is Canada’s first clinically proven and regulatory-approved treatment for those seeking to slow the progression of dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD) and potentially improve their vision. Oxford Optometry is proud to be one of the first optometry practices in Canada to offer this cutting-edge technology for treating dry AMD.
MacuMira works by targeting retinal epithelium cells at the back of the eye and using a gentle microcurrent to stimulate the cells and improve bloodflow, helping to reduce macular waste that would otherwise impact your vision. Treatment with MacuMira is painless, delivered across closed eyelids, and involves no systemic drugs or injections.
Your optometrist will be able to discuss your options for MacuMira treatment with you. Be sure to reach out to our dedicated team at Oxford Optometry to book an eye exam today!
Is It Possible to Reverse Macular Degeneration?
Currently, there is no known way to fully reverse macular degeneration. However, significant advancements in research and treatment offer hope for managing the condition and preventing further vision loss. Treatments like anti-VEGF injections can sometimes improve vision for those with wet macular degeneration. For dry macular degeneration, MacuMira is a breakthrough new technology that offers painless and effective treatment.
At Oxford Optometry, we stay informed on the latest developments in eye care and are here to provide guidance and support tailored to your needs.
Find Support with Oxford Optometry
Recognizing the early signs of macular degeneration and seeking timely care are critical steps in protecting your vision.
We’re proud to offer the latest cutting-edge technology for treating AMD, such as MacuMira, at our practice. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way with warmth, patience, and expert care.
If you have questions or concerns about your eye health, book an appointment with us today.
