The macula, also known as the macula, is a small area located in the center of the retina responsible for sharp vision. Although only 5 mm in diameter, it is responsible for central vision. This area is densely populated with photoreceptor cells that detect light. This area also allows for the perception of details. For example, the macula facilitates tasks such as threading a needle or reading. When the macula malfunctions, the area viewed appears blurry and dark. In macular degeneration, peripheral vision is not impaired, but central vision is. For example, a person may see a clock on the wall but not know what time it is. Macular degeneration does not result in complete blindness. These patients can perform their own tasks at home, but they cannot go out alone, read, write, watch television, or drive. Macular degeneration is a progressive disease.
The disease is classified as dry (non-exudative) and wet (exudative). While dry macular degeneration accounts for 80% of diagnosed cases, wet macular degeneration accounts for 80% of the severe vision loss associated with this disease.
WHAT ARE DRY AND WET MALE DEGENERATION?
Dry macular degeneration, or dry macular degeneration, is the most common type of macular degeneration. Dry macular degeneration can sometimes begin in one eye and later appear in the other. When one eye is affected, vision is not significantly affected because the brain processes the information it receives from the other eye.
Wet macular degeneration is observed in patients with dry macular degeneration. 10% of dry macular degeneration patients have a risk of developing the wet form. The wet form can occur for various reasons. These can be summarized as follows:
- Vision loss due to abnormal vascular growth: The choroid, a vascular-rich layer located between the sclera and retina, is located in the eye. Sometimes, abnormal new blood vessels can develop in this layer (choroidal neovascularization). If these vessels leak fluid or blood, they can interfere with the retina's function.
- Vision loss due to fluid accumulation at the back of the eye: When fluid leaks from the choroid layer, it can sometimes accumulate between the retina and a thin layer called the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). This causes swelling in the macula, leading to vision loss.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MALE SPOT DISEASE?
In dry macular degeneration, symptoms appear and progress gradually and painlessly. In wet macular degeneration, vision loss progresses very rapidly.
Symptoms can be listed as follows:
- Visual distortion, such as straight lines appearing crooked
- Loss of central vision in one or both eyes
- Requires more light when reading or performing fine-detailed tasks
- Difficulty adapting to dimly lit environments; especially when entering dimly lit restaurants or other environments
- Increased blurriness when reading printed words
- Reduced color intensity or brightness
- Difficulty recognizing faces
If you observe the symptoms listed below, you should consult an ophthalmologist immediately.
- Changes in central vision
- Deterioration in your ability to see fine details or colors compared to before
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF MALE SPOTS?
While the causes of dry macular degeneration are not completely known, research has shown that the disease arises from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR MALE SPOTS?
There are many risk factors for macular degeneration (macular degeneration). Studies show that the following factors have a linear relationship with the incidence of the disease:
- Age: The incidence of macular degeneration increases with age. Individuals over 50 are particularly susceptible to this disease.
- Family history and genetic factors: Research has discovered several genes responsible for macular degeneration. Therefore, it is thought that the disease is hereditary.
- Race: Macular degeneration is more common in Caucasians.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of macular degeneration.
- Obesity: Research shows that obesity contributes to the faster progression of early-stage macular degeneration.
- Cardiovascular disease: If an individual has cardiovascular disease affecting the heart or blood vessels, they are at higher risk for macular degeneration.
Individuals with advanced macular degeneration who experience severe vision loss may experience depression or social isolation over time. Additionally, some patients may experience visual hallucinations, known as Charles Bonnet syndrome. These hallucinations are not caused by a psychological disorder. Hallucinations can take the form of photopsias, which are the perception of light, geometric shapes, patterns, faces, people, animals, landscapes, vehicles, buildings, or even images of a lilliputian (finger person). These hallucinations occur while the patient is conscious and beyond their control. Hallucinations appear over the blurred image, and the two can be differentiated.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO PREVENT MALE SPOT DISEASE?
While it is not entirely possible to prevent macular degeneration, regular eye checkups are crucial to slow the progression of the disease. Furthermore, the quality of life measures mentioned above will both reduce the progression of the disease and delay its onset. Research has proven that a diet rich in vegetables and fruits slows the progression of the disease. Antioxidant-rich foods, in particular, should be included in the diet.
HOW IS MALE SPOT DISEASE DIAGNOSED?
An eye examination is important for patients with macular degeneration to detect any retinal abnormalities. Additionally, your doctor may request tests such as optical coherence tomography (retinal tomography), fundus fluorescein angiography (eye angiography), and optical coherence tomography angiography (eye angiography without medication) if necessary. Additionally, the patient may perform a self-administered Amsler Grid test (grid paper test) to monitor the progression of their disease.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR MALE SPOT DISEASE?
Until 10 years ago, lasers were used to treat abnormal blood vessel or capillary growths in patients with wet macular degeneration. However, these treatments, at best, slowed the progression of the disease but did not improve vision.
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors developed over the last 10 years have provided significant benefits to patients with wet macular degeneration. The medication, administered via intraocular injection, has been shown to stabilize vision in nearly all patients with wet macular degeneration. Furthermore, it provides a significant improvement in visual acuity in many patients.
Intraocular drug injections are not used in dry macular degeneration. Diet and nutritional supplements are recommended to nourish and regenerate the affected area to slow the progression of dry macular degeneration.
Wishing you healthy and beautiful days ahead...