Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of eyesight loss in people aged over 50. As we age, the macular - the central part of the retina that gives us fine detailed vision - can begin to break down, causing distorted vision and blurriness. If left untreated, macular degeneration can lead to a gradual loss of sight. Dry age-related macular degeneration, which accounts for around 90% of all cases, occurs when light sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down, gradually causing vision in the affected eye to become blurred. The symptoms of dry macular degeneration tend to develop quite slowly, with mild blurring or distortion gradually worsening over time. A much rarer condition, wet macular degeneration, is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels which can then begin to leak. This causes the retina to lift away from the eye wall, resulting in swelling and impaired vision. Straight lines that suddenly appear wavy or distorted are a classic symptom of wet macular degeneration. Anyone noticing this should visit a doctor immediately, as vision that has been destroyed by wet age-related macular degeneration cannot be regained.

Macular Degeneration Treatment

Every case of age-related macular degeneration will be slightly different. For this reason, the blend of macular degeneration treatments our consultants advise are individually tailored to meet the needs of every patient. Dry age-related macular degeneration can be controlled very effectively through changes in diet and lifestyle, including: * Wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes from harmful rays. * Stopping smoking * Maintaining low blood pressure. * Eating foods rich in antioxidants and naturally occurring pigments, such as those found in brightly coloured vegetables like peppers, broccoli and spinach. More severe forms of dry macular degeneration can also be operated on (see below fore more details). Wet age-related macular degeneration is now typically treated with an anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) drug, administered through a course of quick, painless injections. These innovative new drugs, which inhibit the growth of blood vessels, are suitable for a far greater percentage of sufferers than traditional surgery and typically deliver far better results. Optegra offers the most effective anti-VEGF drugs available. During your consultation your macular degeneration consultant will discuss the best option for you.

Post Macular Degeneration Treatment Care

After your macular degeneration treatment you will spend some time in our comfortable recovery room to rest before returning home. Your surgeon will advise you to take further rest and to get a good night's sleep, helping to speed up your recovery. Your surgeon will also provide you with antibiotic drops. These are essential for you to use for five days following eye surgery. As with most of Optegra's treatments, we will ask you to return to our hospital for a check-up within a few days. Your surgeon will assess your progress and will make sure that you are recovering well. They will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding your continuing recovery. Most of our macular degeneration patients experience a stabilisation in vision within the first few days, with around 30% reporting a significant improvement.