Certain conditions can affect the macula and, in turn, one’s central vision. Probably the most common is “macular degeneration,” a hereditary ocular disease. Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness among Americans 65 and older. “Dry” macular degeneration generally is caused by a thinning of the macula’s layers, and vision loss typically is gradual. However, tiny, fragile blood vessels can develop underneath the macula. “Wet” macular degeneration can result when these blood vessels hemorrhage, and blood and other fluid further can destroy macular tissue, even causing scarring. In this case, vision loss can be rapid—over months or even weeks—as well as very devastating.

Macular tissue destroyed by either dry or wet macular degeneration cannot be repaired. In the case of the wet form, a special laser can be used to seal the leaking blood vessels in the retina. However, the tiny spots where the laser burns the retina will lose vision permanently and other blood vessels may leak in the future, requiring further laser treatment.

The earliest symptom of macular degeneration usually is persistently blurred vision. As more cells of the macula are destroyed, objects become distorted (for instance, straight lines become crooked). Eventually, a small blind spot in the central visual field can develop and grow in size. This can progress to the point of “doughnut” vision, where people’s faces are unrecognizable when looking directly at them, yet peripheral vision remains unaffected.

Naturally occurring carotenoids in the macula, lutein and zeaxanthin (molecular cousins of beta carotene and vitamin A), have been shown to be effective bodyguards against degeneration of the macula. These pigments absorb and filter out near-to-blue ultraviolet radiation—acting essentially as built-in macular “sunglasses”—which potentially is the most damaging electromagnetic radiation reaching the macula. Thus, the greater the amount of macular pigment, the less the risk of macular degeneration. Lutein and zeaxanthin are found particularly in yellow fruits and in green leafy vegetables (especially xanthophyll-rich vegetables such as spinach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli), in eggs, and as nutritional supplements.

If you feel that you are a candidate for such treatment, contact Banaji Eyecare.