Age-related macular degeneration, widespread, little known

Many talk about it, many suffer from it. But what is it exactly?

There are millions of people around the world who suffer from age-related macular degeneration.

In Italy alone, estimates speak of about one million diagnosed cases and cases not yet recognized.

In the face of such a high diffusion, however, the knowledge of this ophthalmological pathology remains rather limited. What is it exactly? And what are its consequences?

A target in the center of the eye

The disease owes its name to the structure it affects, the macula. Located in the center of the retina, it is the most sensitive part and helps to send the brain the light signals that converge in the eye.

Its size is that of the head of a pin, but inside there are millions of light-sensitive cells that allow a clear and detailed view of the center of the visual field.

By affecting this central part of the eye, macular degeneration leads to a loss of central vision, normally used when focusing vision on a point.

Victim of the disease is therefore that part of sight that serves to carry out daily activities such as reading, driving, watching TV or recognizing faces.

The two faces of the enemy

There are actually two different forms of age-related macular degeneration. The “atrophic” (or “dry”) one is the most widespread. Its causes are unknown and it is generally associated with aging.

It is quite rare before the age of 55; Its incidence increases after the age of 75, when it rises to 27%, and even more so after the age of 80, when it varies between 40 and 50%.

The least frequent form, accounting for about 25% of cases, develops more rapidly and is associated with a specific phenomenon: the uncontrolled growth of blood vessels from which fluid escapes.

Called “exudative” or “wet”, it is the only type for which there is a treatment, consisting in the injection into the eye of drugs that block the growth of the vessels.

For the moment, however, those suffering from the atrophic form can only try to slow down its progression with an adequate lifestyle based on appropriate food choices and eye protection from sunlight.

No cure yet

In any case, age-related macular degeneration remains an incurable disease.

Those who suffer from it, especially if both eyes are affected, are not destined to lose their sight, but the consequences in terms of reducing the quality of life of the most severe forms are similar to those of stroke.

It is better, therefore, to learn to recognize this enemy from the first signs and, if necessary, promptly contact the ophthalmologist.

Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.

The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.

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