The back of the eye has a light-sensitive lining called the retina, responsible for transforming light and images into signals for the brain. The macula sits in the central part of the retina, converting light and images in the central, straight-ahead vision. Wet macular degeneration occurs when new blood vessels grow and leak underneath the macula, lifting the retina and distorting central vision. Understanding wet macular degeneration helps those with the first signs of the disease seek early treatment.
Symptoms
People with wet macular degeneration will have a significant change in their vision, such as straight lines appearing wavy. For example, looking at a telephone pole, the pole will seem to bend or twist. As well, a blind spot in the central part of vision may also occur, says the National Eye Institute. Anyone with these symptoms or any other vision changes, no matter how slight or subtle, should see an ophthalmologist.
Diagnosis
An ophthalmologist (eye doctor) should examine the eyes to determine the cause for the vision changes. The doctor or his staff will check vision and ask the patient to look at an Amsler grid, made up of horizontal and vertical lines, to determine if any of the lines appear wavy. He will dilate both pupils to examine the back of the eye. If the doctor suspects wet macular degeneration, he may order special photos of the back of the eye to measure the thickness of the macula. An abnormally thick macula may indicate leaking blood vessels.
Treatment
Depending on the extent and location of the damage, the doctor will decide between a few treatment options. Laser surgery closes off the leaky vessels, but will also destroy healthy tissues. For light therapy, the doctor or his nurse injects a medication into the arm, and after a short time the drug attaches to the leaking blood vessels. The doctor shines a special light into the eye to activate the drug, which destroys the new blood vessels. The doctor may also inject a medication into the eye itself to slow new blood vessel growth and leakage.
Outlook
Treatments aim to slow or eliminate the leaking blood vessels, but once the leakage damages the macula, vision cannot be restored. The disease usually damages central vision, and most people with the condition rely on peripheral vision to perform daily activities. As of 2010, researchers have not found a cure or restorative treatment, though the National Eye Institute plays an important role in continued research for restoration of vision and prevention of the disease.
Lifestyle
Eating diets rich in leafy, green vegetables and not smoking may reduce risks of macular degeneration. Making these lifestyle changes, along with maintaining a healthy weight and staying active, will give people every chance to retain good vision.
