Forms of Macular Degeneration
Dry Macular Degeneration
This is the more common form, affecting 85–90% of diagnosed patients. It progresses slowly and is characterized by the accumulation of waste deposits called “drusen” between the retinal layers, leading to reduced or blurred vision.
In the early stages, vision loss may occur in one eye while the other compensates, delaying symptom recognition. However, as the disease advances, vision in the second eye is also affected.
Wet Macular Degeneration
This form is less common but more severe, causing significant and rapid central vision loss. It is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels that bleed easily, leaving scars on the retina and distorting vision. Initially, the disease affects only one eye, with the healthy eye compensating for the loss, which often delays diagnosis until both eyes are affected.
Symptoms
- Difficulty reading (lines appear missing)
- Difficulty recognizing faces
- Colors appear faded
- Dark spots appear when trying to focus
- Straight lines appear distorted or wavy
- Gray or dark spots appear in central vision
- Color perception varies between the two eyes
Normal Vision Macular Degeneration
Risk Factors
- Age (Individuals over 50 are at higher risk)
- Genetics (Family history of macular degeneration)
- Smoking
- Systemic diseases affecting the eyes
- Poor blood pressure control
- Vitamin-deficient diet
- High cholesterol levels
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight
- Obesity
- Gender (Studies suggest macular degeneration is more common in women)
- Exposure to blue light from screens, phones, and televisions is also theorized as a potential risk factor
Diagnosis
VISION is equipped with the most advanced technology for diagnosing macular degeneration, using new and non-invasive methods for imaging the retinal blood vessels. The Optical Coherence Tomography device (OCT scanner) produces a 3D image of the retina. Unlike the standard invasive method, in which a contrast agent (dye) is injected intravenously, the OCT scanner uses harmless light and is non-contact and painless. The examination is performed within 3–4 minutes.
The detailed 3D “image” allows the earliest signs of macular degeneration to be detected even before symptoms appear. This is why regular preventive eye examinations and OCT scans are important, especially after the age of 50.
Another device used at VISION for early detection of the disease is the Eidon scanning laser ophthalmoscope. Within a few seconds, it captures a detailed image of the retina in both eyes.
Treatment
Dry Macular Degeneration:
With the innovative technology of the VALEDA Light Delivery System, the treatment is non-invasive, safe, and painless. Valeda uses light energy (photobiomodulation) to improve the condition by stimulating the metabolic processes in the eye’s cells and enhancing their ability to regenerate.
The treatment is carried out over a period of 3–4 weeks and carries no risks.
The first results appear within a few weeks after completing the therapy and, according to scientific data, vision may improve by two to three lines on the eye chart.
Course of Treatment
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The course consists of 9 procedures
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Each procedure lasts 5 minutes per eye
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The procedures are distributed over a period of 3–4 weeks
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The optimal schedule is 3 sessions per week
During the initial examination, it is determined whether one or both eyes require treatment.
Wet Macular Degeneration
The treatment of the wet form of macular degeneration consists of administering medication through injections into the eye, which prevent the formation of new blood vessels in the retina. The purpose of these intraocular injections is to stop the progression of the disease.
At VISION, this treatment can be made easier, and the number of required injections can be reduced by combining the injections with Valeda procedures.
Prevention
- Regular eye exams (especially after age 50)
- Family history screening for early detection
- Wearing UV-protective sunglasses
- Using blue light filters on screens and mobile devices
- Consuming eye-protective vitamins (A, C, E, B) and trace elements (zinc, manganese, selenium, copper)
- Including vegetables like carrots, spinach, broccoli, and peas in the diet
