Causes and Treatment of Macular Degeneration
What is the Macula?
The macula is a specialized nerve tissue located at the center of the retina inside the eye. Most of the eye’s photoreceptor cells, which are responsible for detecting light and forming images, are concentrated in this area. Because images are focused on the macula, it plays a critical role in sharp, detailed central vision.
When a problem occurs in this area, it can lead to a condition called macular degeneration.
Macular degeneration is considered one of the three major causes of blindness. If left untreated, the condition may progressively worsen and can eventually lead to severe vision loss or blindness.
The disease most commonly develops due to aging, but in recent years, cases have also been increasing among younger individuals, partly due to factors such as increased use of electronic devices and lifestyle changes. Therefore, recognizing early symptoms and receiving comprehensive eye examinations and appropriate treatment is very important.
Types of Macular Degeneration
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| Non-Exudative (Dry) Macular Degeneration |
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| Exudative (Wet) Macular Degeneration |
Macular degeneration is broadly classified into two types: non-exudative (dry) macular degeneration and exudative (wet) macular degeneration.
Wet macular degeneration, also known as exudative macular degeneration, occurs when abnormalities such as subretinal hemorrhage, subretinal fluid, or retinal pigment epithelial detachment develop beneath or within the central macula. When these lesions affect the macular center, vision loss can occur even in the early stages.
Wet Macular Degeneration (Exudative)
This form has a much poorer visual prognosis and is known to be one of the leading causes of blindness among people over the age of 65. Although it accounts for only about 10% of all macular degeneration cases, if left untreated it can progress rapidly and may lead to severe vision loss or blindness within about two years.
Early Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
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| Normal Vision Vision with Macular Degeneration |
Early Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
Common early symptoms of macular degeneration include visual distortion, where objects appear bent or warped, letters appearing shaky or distorted while reading, the appearance of a dark spot in the center of vision (central scotoma), and gradual vision loss.
Symptoms may vary from person to person. If any visual abnormalities are noticed, it is important to undergo a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination for early diagnosis and timely treatment.
Treatment Options for Macular Degeneration
Medication Therapy
Certain medications may be prescribed to improve microcirculation in the retinal blood vessels, helping slow the progression of the disease.
Intravitreal Injections
Intravitreal injections involve administering anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) inhibitors directly into the eye. These medications help suppress the growth of abnormal blood vessels, promote their regression, and strengthen existing blood vessel walls to prevent bleeding or fluid leakage. This treatment can help slow disease progression, preserve vision, and in some cases improve visual acuity. In recent years, it has become one of the most effective treatments for retinal diseases.
Laser Treatment
Laser therapy may be used to target areas of poor retinal blood circulation, helping prevent the development of harmful abnormal blood vessels. The procedure is performed selectively depending on the patient’s condition.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Several treatment methods are used to manage macular degeneration.
These treatments are used not only for macular degeneration but also for other retinal conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, retinal hemorrhage, and retinal edema.
Bright Eye Clinic Gangnam is equipped with advanced retinal diagnostic devices, comparable to those used in major university hospitals, allowing for precise evaluation of macular degeneration. Our experienced retinal specialists provide accurate diagnosis and safe treatment.
The clinic also maintains a 24-hour sterilization and temperature-controlled system, along with comfortable recovery areas to ensure both safety and patient comfort.
Since macular degeneration is a condition that is difficult to completely cure, early detection and early treatment are extremely important. Regular eye examinations help monitor the condition of the macula, and if symptoms appear, prompt consultation with an ophthalmologist and appropriate treatment are strongly recommended.
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