The Types Of Macular Degeneration You Get
Macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in older individuals, affects the macula. The macula is the part of the retina that allows for the sharp central vision. This is the vision that allows us to read, drive, draw, etc. Macular degeneration comes in two forms - dry (non-neovascular) and wet (neovascular).
The dry version of macular degeneration is actually the early stage of the disease. Although its exact cause is not known, it is believed to be caused by age and the thinning of the macular lining.
The main characteristic of dry macular degeneration is when drusen appears. Drusen are spots, yellowish in color, that are caused by deposits from the deteriorating tissue around the macula. Dry macular degeneration does not cause as severe vision loss as the wet version, but no definitive treatment has been found. Some studies have shown that certain vitamins may slow the progress of the degeneration.
The other, more severe, version of macular degeneration is characterized by a process known as neovascularization. This term refers to the formation of new blood vessels. It is actually the body's attempt to repair the damage of dry macular degeneration. Instead, it only causes further damage ultimately leading to blindness. The damage is caused by leakage that permanently damages the cells of the retina. Only a small fraction of people with dry macular degeneration progress to the more severe wet version.
The wet version, however, does come in two categories. The most severe category is the classic. This type forms a distinctive set of vessels that appear as delineated lines beneath the retina. The leakage from these vessels is severe and thus causes the most damage to the retina. Complete blindness is usually the result of the classic type. The other category of neovascular macular degeneration is called the occult. In this version, the vessels are not as formed and leak less fluids. This, of course, results in less damage to the vision.
When it comes to eye disease, getting the right information can be a daunting task. That's why we put together this confidential report for you at eye disease