Age Related Macular Degeneration
best ophthalmologist in Abu Dhabi - Dr Madhava Rao
Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD disease, is an eye condition that impairs central vision. This means that people with macular degeneration cannot perceive objects right in front of them.
About Macular degeneration
Macular degeneration is predominantly an age-related retinal disorder. There are two forms of macular degeneration: moist and dry. You may lose your central vision but are unlikely to lose your entire eyesight. This prevalent age-related eye problem primarily affects adults aged over 50.
AMD disease mainly affects the central part of your retina, known as the macula. The retina is in the rear of your eye and regulates central vision. People with macular degeneration are not fully blind, as their ability to see things from the sides (peripheral vision) is intact.
Types of AMD disease:
Dry AMD is the more common condition, accounting for approximately 90% of AMD cases. It is characterized by the gradual thinning of the macula, a crucial part of our retina that facilitates sharp, central vision. Dry AMD progresses slowly and is marked by the accumulation of drusen, tiny yellow or white deposits under the retina. Symptoms might not be noticeable in the early stages, but over time, it can lead to significant vision loss, particularly the loss of central vision.
Wet AMD, though less common, is more severe and can lead to rapid vision loss if not treated promptly. This type occurs when abnormal blood vessels develop under the macula and discharge blood or fluid, leading to scarring and damage to the retina. Patients with wet AMD might experience sudden symptoms, such as distorted vision or dark spots in their central vision. Early detection prevents severe vision loss and potentially stabilizes or improves vision outcomes.
Symptoms of AMD disease to Watch For
- Worsening or Less Clear Vision: One of the first signs of macular degeneration is a decline in the clarity of your vision. This may manifest as difficulty reading fine print, challenges in driving, or problems recognizing faces due to blurry vision.
- Dark, Blurry Areas in the Center of Your Vision: As AMD progresses, you might notice dark or blurry spots in the central part of your vision, making it hard to see details directly in front of you.
- Distorted Straight Lines: For those with macular degeneration, straight lines might appear wavy or bent, indicating changes in the macula, the central part of the retina affected by the disease.
- Altered Color Perception: Some individuals with AMD disease experience changes in how they perceive colors. Colors may seem less vibrant or different than before, affecting the overall quality of vision.
Diagnosis AMD Disease
Diagnosing Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) involves a comprehensive evaluation of the retina to identify characteristic signs of the disease. Eye care professionals utilize a variety of tests to diagnose AMD and assess its progression. These tests are essential for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to the patient’s condition.
- Amsler Grid Test: One of the simplest and most initial assessments for macular degeneration involves the Amsler grid, a pattern of straight lines replicating a checkerboard. Patients with AMD may see some lines as wavy or broken, indicating potential macular damage.
- Dilated Eye Exam: In this exam, drops are placed in the eyes to widen (dilate) the pupils, allowing the eye care provider to examine the back of the eye. Using a special magnifying lens, the doctor can observe the retina and macula for signs of AMD and other retinal conditions.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): OCT is a sophisticated imaging test that provides cross-sectional retina images. It can detect the presence of drusen, retinal thinning, or thickening associated with AMD and is particularly useful for identifying and monitoring wet AMD.
- Fluorescein Angiography: For cases where wet AMD is suspected, fluorescein angiography may be performed. A fluorescent dye is administered into the bloodstream, highlighting the blood vessels in the back of the eye so they can be photographed.
Macular Degeneration Treatment in Abu Dhabi, UAE
The treatment for AMD is determined by its stage and kind. There is presently no treatment for early AMD. Therefore, your eye doctor will likely simply monitor your eyes’ health through regular checks. Eating healthily, being active, and quitting smoking are advised for general well-being.
If you have intermediate AMD, dietary supplements (vitamins and minerals) can be helpful to prevent it from progressing to late AMD. If you only have late-stage AMD in one eye, these supplements may help reduce the development of AMD in the other.
If you have wet AMD, there may be various therapies that can prevent future vision loss:
- The doctor injects anti-VEGF medicines into your eye.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a combination of injection and laser treatment in some select cases
Macular Degeneration Surgery in Abu Dhabi
Researchers are looking at experimental treatments for age-related macular degeneration. They include:
Submacular surgery. This technique removes any aberrant blood arteries or blood.
Retina translocation. This removes aberrant blood veins beneath the center of your macula, where your doctor cannot safely use a laser. During this treatment, your doctor shifts the center of your macula away from the aberrant blood vessels and toward a healthy portion of your retina. This prevents scar tissue and further damage to your retina. Your doctor next treats the aberrant blood vessels with a laser.
Consult Dr. Madhava Rao - the best ophthalmologist in Abu Dhabi
Dr. Madhava Rao is widely recognized as the best ophthalmologist in Abu Dhabi, offering unparalleled expertise in eye care.
His comprehensive approach and cutting-edge techniques, particularly in macular degeneration macular degeneration surgery in Abu Dhabi, have set a new standard. Patients seeking advanced solutions for their eye health concerns, including macular degeneration surgery, find solace and success under his care.
Dr. Rao is known as the Burjeel hospital eye specialist for his commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction.
Book your appointment for macular degeneration treatment in Dubai.
Fellowships & Memberships
Accolades - Your Eyes are in Award-winning Hands
Ophthalmologist Education Award
A testament to Dr. Rao's commitment to advancing ophthalmic education and sharing knowledge with the next generation of eye care professionals.
International Ophthalmology Scholar Award
Recognizing his significant contributions to the global ophthalmology community, this award highlights Dr. Rao's role in enhancing the understanding and treatment of eye diseases worldwide.
