What is Macular Degeneration (Age-Related Macular Degeneration)?

Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that can affect the macula region of the retina, which is responsible for central and detailed vision. The disease is seen more frequently at advanced ages and can lead to changes in central vision.

What Are the Types of Macular Degeneration?

• Dry Macular Degeneration: This form progresses with the accumulation of deposits called drusen in the macular region and the development of degenerative changes in retinal cells over time.
• Wet Macular Degeneration: This form is characterized by the formation of abnormal vessels under the retina and the leakage of fluid or blood from these vessels, which can lead to vision loss.

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

• Deterioration in Central Vision: Difficulties may be experienced in functions that require central vision, such as reading, writing, recognizing faces, and distinguishing details.
• Differences in Color Perception: Colors may appear duller compared to before, and it may become more difficult to distinguish between tones. 
   
• Visual Distortions: Straight lines may appear curved or wavy, and a blurred, dark, or empty area may be noticed in the central visual field.

Risk Factors

• Age: Advancing age is one of the important risk factors for the development of macular degeneration.
• Genetic Predisposition: A family history of macular degeneration may be associated with a predisposition to the disease.
• Smoking: Tobacco use is among the modifiable risk factors for age-related macular degeneration.
• Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Certain conditions that affect heart and vascular health, such as hypertension, may be associated with an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration.

How Is Macular Degeneration Managed and Treated?

• Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Inhibitors: Frequently used in the treatment of wet macular degeneration.Vitamins and
• Mineral Supplements: In certain stages of age-related macular degeneration, specific combinations of vitamins and minerals such as the AREDS2 formulation may be recommended in line with the ophthalmologist’s assessment.
• Photodynamic Therapy: In some patients with wet age-related macular degeneration, additional treatment options such as photodynamic therapy may be considered, depending on the ophthalmologist’s evaluation.

Macular degeneration is an eye disease whose risk increases with age and that can affect central visual function. The treatment process varies according to the type of the disease (dry or wet form) and its stage.

The absence of symptoms in the early stages of macular degeneration makes regular eye examinations important. Especially in older adults or in individuals with risk factors for age-related macular degeneration, regular eye examinations are important. The frequency of examinations can be determined by an ophthalmologist based on the person’s age, eye findings, and risk factors.

A balanced diet including dark green leafy vegetables, fish, fruits, and vegetables may contribute to the overall support of eye health. Avoiding smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in physical activity, and keeping cardiovascular risk factors under control are important for the management of modifiable risk factors.

In advanced cases of macular degeneration, special low-vision aids can be used to maintain independence in daily life. Technological devices such as magnifiers, telescopic glasses, electronic reading devices, and contrast-enhancing screens make it possible to use the remaining visual capacity more effectively.

AREDS and AREDS2 Supplements

The current AREDS2 formulation contains vitamins C and E, lutein, copper, zinc, and zeaxanthin. In appropriate patient groups, this formulation may help reduce the risk of progression of the disease to advanced stages. The use of supplements should be planned based on the stage of the disease and the person’s overall health status, under the assessment of an ophthalmologist.

Photobiomodulation Therapy

In photobiomodulation therapy, the aim is to support energy production in retinal cells and activate cellular mechanisms by using low-level laser or LED light. In dry macular degeneration, it may come into consideration, in appropriately selected cases and following specialist evaluation, as an option that can help preserve visual function and slow cellular progression.

What Can Be Considered to Reduce the Risk of Macular Degeneration?

• Not Neglecting Eye Check-Ups: Routine eye examinations can help detect changes that may occur in the macula at an early stage.
• Balanced Nutrition: A balanced and varied diet that includes fish, dark green leafy vegetables, fruits, and vegetables is important for supporting overall eye health.
• Avoiding Smoking: Smoking is among the important modifiable risk factors for age-related macular degeneration.

Macular degeneration is a serious condition that can lead to vision loss. Early diagnosis and regular follow-up are important for evaluating the course of the disease and planning necessary treatment options at the appropriate time. In any eye-related complaint, it is important to consult an eye specialist.