Diagnosing and Care for Macular Degeneration

MD (macular degeneration) occurs when your retina’s macula becomes damaged. It affects your central vision. According to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, MD eliminates your central vision but keeps your peripheral vision intact. When you look at something distant or close, you are unable to see the fine details. Determining the initial signs of MD is vital for its early treatment. If you want to determine the proper diagnosis and care for macular degeneration, here’s what you should know.

 

The Diagnosis

Below are some of the common diagnostic techniques for MD:

 

• Fundus autofluorescence imaging

  You have natural fluorophores that illuminate when they’re exposed to specific light wavelengths. Fundus autofluorescence is a non-invasive imaging test that uses your body’s organic fluorescence to examine your retina. Eye specialists use this type of imaging to assess geographic atrophy and late-stage dry MD.
  
   

• Fundus fluorescein angiography

  For this test, your eye care provider will inject a yellow dye (fluorescein) into a specific vein in your hand or arm. Then, after getting your eye dilating drops, you will sit in front of a special camera. Your eye doctor will take sequential pictures of your eye. The images will show any retinal or choroidal leakage and blood flow.
  
   

• Optical coherence tomography

  This is also a non-intrusive imaging exam that takes cross-section images of your choroid layer and retina by using infrared light waves. Your eye care specialist will apply eye dilating drops to your eyes. Then, you will sit in front of a device and place your chin on the chin rest. The exam will take about 15 minutes.
  
   

The Care Methods

Here are common care methods for MD that your eye care provider may use:

 

• Modify your diet

  Battling macular degeneration involves changing your diet. You should add more antioxidants, zinc, copper, and fatty acids. Zinc and copper regulate cellular function and enhance the absorption of antioxidants. Eggs, seafood, seeds, and leafy greens are good sources of zinc. You can get copper from cocoa beans, liver, and nuts. Antioxidants help eliminate free radicals that damage cells. Get vitamins A, C, and E from fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Fatty acids help you fight inflammation and lower your levels of bad cholesterol. Get them from seeds, nuts, and fatty fish.
  
   

• Low vision rehabilitation

  In MD, your peripheral vision remains normal. Your central vision is either eliminated or decreased. To help you manage your daily activities, you can seek the help of a low vision rehabilitation specialist. This professional can help you adapt to the changes brought about by your impaired vision.
  
   

• Telescopic lens surgery

  Your eye surgeon can also implant a telescopic lens in your affected eye. This lens can magnify what you see, improving your near and distance vision. It can help you read street signs better.

  
   

Macular degeneration can prevent you from accomplishing your daily activities. At In Focus Vision Center, we can help diagnose and manage your eye ailments while safeguarding your overall health.  


To schedule an appointment or to learn more about macular degeneration contact In Focus Vision Center in Piscataway, New Jersey at 732-313-2570.