Eye conditions should always be taken seriously. Without professional intervention, they can cause all kinds of unwanted symptoms and even permanent vision damage. Two common culprits of vision damage are glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. But what are these conditions, exactly?
Age-related macular degeneration primarily affects the central part of your retina. It damages your central vision and can be divided into two types: dry and wet.
Glaucoma, on the other hand, is a group of conditions linked to high pressure inside your eye. This pressure damages the optic nerve and causes permanent vision loss. It typically affects peripheral vision first, though this isn’t always the case.
What Is Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
Macular degeneration, often referred to as AMD (age-related macular degeneration), affects the part of the retina called the macula. The macula is responsible for detailed central vision, and it’s essential for tasks like reading or recognizing faces. AMD damages this area and makes these activities significantly harder.
There are two main types of macular degeneration:
- Dry AMD: This is the most common form, making up roughly 80% of all cases. It’s characterized by the thinning of the macula and the gradual loss of central vision.
- Wet AMD: This is a much less common but more severe form. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid. This leads to sudden vision loss and permanent damage if left unaddressed.
AMD is much more common in older adults. It’s a complex condition caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle.
The Early Signs of AMD
Macular degeneration often develops gradually. It’s difficult to recognize the symptoms at first, but early detection is crucial.
Common signs of dry AMD include:
- Blurry or wavy vision
- Difficulty reading, even with glasses
- Trouble recognizing faces
- Shadows or blind spots in central vision
- Colors appearing less bright or vivid
Wet AMD is more complicated and much more sudden. It causes similar symptoms as dry AMD, but significantly faster. If you notice severe changes in your vision, immediately contact a medical professional. Wet AMD can be treated if caught quickly enough.
How To Treat AMD
While there is no cure for AMD, there are several treatment options available. These treatments are designed to slow the condition’s progression and manage symptoms. Treatment may vary depending on the type and severity of AMD, but usually includes:
- Lifestyle changes focusing on diet and lifestyle. If you’re at a higher risk of AMD, you should try prioritizing a nutrient-rich diet high in leafy greens and foods with omega-3s.
- Avoiding tobacco at all times. Tobacco inflames the delicate tissues of the eye and increases the risk of degeneration and cellular damage.
- Regularly exercising. This reduces the risk of developing AMD significantly and offers other benefits for your eyes.
In severe cases, laser therapy or injections may be necessary to prevent further vision loss. Your optometrist will discuss your options with you and help you make an informed decision.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions linked to high pressure inside the eye. This pressure damages the optic nerve—the nerve responsible for sending information from the eyes to the brain. Glaucoma develops slowly and subtly, which is why regular eye exams are so important.
There are four common types of glaucoma:
- Open-angle glaucoma. This is the most common form. It develops slowly as a result of poor fluid drainage in the eye.
- Narrow-angle glaucoma. This occurs when the drainage angle in the eye becomes blocked, leading to a rapid buildup of pressure.
- Secondary glaucoma. This is when intraocular pressure develops as a result of another underlying condition.
- Congenital glaucoma. This is a rare form found in infants. It’s caused by a drainage issue present from birth.
It’s important to note that each type of glaucoma requires a unique approach to management and treatment.
What Are The Signs Of Glaucoma?
In the earliest stages, glaucoma rarely shows any symptoms. Eye pressure builds gradually and eventually restricts your vision. However, unlike AMD, glaucoma typically affects the peripheral vision at first. This is difficult to notice and almost impossible to self-diagnose.
Other symptoms indicating something is wrong include:
- Blurred or tunnel vision
- Halos around lights, especially at night
- Eye pain or pressure
- Redness in the eye
- Nausea or vomiting in severe cases
If you notice any significant vision changes, visit your optometrist as soon as you can. Glaucoma causes permanent vision damage, but your optometrist can help prevent worsened symptoms.
How To Treat Glaucoma
Treatment for glaucoma focuses on reducing eye pressure. This prevents further damage to the optic nerve. Similarly to AMD, quick intervention is key to preserving future vision.
Some popular glaucoma treatments include:
- Prescription eye drops. These help lower pressure by improving fluid drainage or decreasing fluid production in the eye.
- Laser treatments. Special laser surgeries like trabeculoplasty can improve drainage to help regulate your inner eye pressure.
- Manual surgery. If eye drops and laser therapy don’t work, your optometrist may recommend surgery. Procedures like trabeculectomy can be used to create new paths for fluid to exit the eye.
While these are effective treatments, they only delay glaucoma’s progression. You’ll need to continue working with your optometrist to avoid further vision damage. Your vision is precious and it should be prioritized!
Protect & Preserve Your Vision
Conditions like macular degeneration and glaucoma are complicated. However, you’re not alone, and our team at Total Vision Camarillo is here to help. Through regular eye exams with our team, we can work together to monitor any changes in your eyes and vision. We’re here to help keep your vision clear, so book an appointment with us today!
