What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is an eye disease where vision gradually deteriorates. People with macular degeneration experience worsening vision and difficulty distinguishing details because the light-sensitive cells in their retina slowly die off. Most of these cells, called 'cones,' are located in the central part of the retina, the macula lutea. Eventually, the central part of the visual field is completely lost, creating a 'grey spot' (which can actually have all shades of grey, and even be black).

Symptoms of macular degeneration

Macular degeneration often comes with the following symptoms:

• Less sharp vision
• Seeing a blurry, dark spot
• Decreased perception of contrasts
• Colors appearing more faded
• Seeing straight lines as curved

What causes macular degeneration?

• Heredity
• Smoking: people who smoke a pack of cigarettes a day are five times more likely to develop macular degeneration than non-smokers, as smoking breaks down antioxidants in the eye.
• Age: macular degeneration mainly occurs in people over 50.
• Gender: women have a higher chance of developing macular degeneration than men.
• Low macular pigment level
• Unhealthy diet
• Obesity
• High cholesterol levels
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes

Treating macular degeneration

Macular degeneration cannot be cured. However, there are now preventive aids available. Oogwereld can uniquely measure macular pigment with a Macuscope (special eye equipment), allowing us to see if someone has an increased risk of macular degeneration. Fortunately, there is a nutritional supplement that helps maintain vision. We'd love to tell you more about it in the store.

We are here for you

Are you experiencing symptoms consistent with macular degeneration? Get in touch with one of our stores near you.

find your Boutique

-Checked by optometrist-