Causes and risk factors
The retina is made up of two layers-Inner layer (called as rods and cones) and outer layer (is the retinal pigment epithelium and it is behind the rods and cones).The macula is the part of the retina which is packed with rods and cons. It is essential for vision. In dry macular degeneration the retinal pigment epithelium gradually becomes thin and degenerate leading to loss of vision. Although the exact cause is not known, it is seen more in old age. A strong familial history, smoking, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, hypertension and obesity are some of the contributing factors seen.
Clinical presentation
Dry macular degeneration can occur in one or both the eyes. The person reports to an opthalmogist of difficulty in reading and writing. In order to read and write much bright light is required. Haziness can occur in front of the eyes. The central vision is affected directly depending upon the damage to the retinal pigment epithelium. Visual hallucinations along with color vision disturbances occur. A bind spot development in the visual field is noticed by the patient. Dry macular degeneration over time can progress to the wet form and ultimately lead to loss of vision.
Investigations
Diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the examination of the eye carried out by the ophthalmologist. Fluorescein angiogram and Optical coherence tomography are done. Tiny yellow or white deposits in the layer of retina known as Drusen are diagnostic of dry macular degeneration.
Treatment
No medical treatment is available for dry macular degeneration. It only comprises of vitamin supplements. Patient is advised on having food rich in fruits and vegetables.
Other modes of treatment:
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating the complaints. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in combating the sufferings.
Recent update
The advance technique of surgical removal of the natural lens of the eye and replace it with a miniature telescope helps the patient to see better.
