Macular degeneration, medically known as macular degeneration (macula degeneration / AMD), is a serious eye disease that affects the central vision area of the eye. It usually develops in older adults and may lead to central vision loss. The disease is characterized by deterioration in the macula — the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision.
Eye health specialist Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that early diagnosis plays a major role in preventing vision loss, because the disease progresses slowly and many patients realize the symptoms only after part of their vision has already been damaged.
The macula, also known as the “yellow spot,” is located at the center of the retina. It enables us to see
• Colors clearly
• Fine details
• Text and objects sharply
This region contains the highest density of light-sensitive cells and is essential for activities such as reading, writing and driving.
According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, the macula is the most delicate part of the eye, which makes it highly vulnerable to aging, genetics and environmental factors. When the macula is damaged, central vision becomes blurry or disappears, while side (peripheral) vision usually remains intact.
Macular degeneration is generally grouped into two main types
This is the most common form. It occurs when light-sensitive retinal cells gradually weaken over time.
• Progression is usually slow
• Vision loss develops gradually
Op. Dr. Diclehan states that regular follow-up and antioxidant-rich nutrition can help slow down disease progression.
Wet AMD is characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina. These vessels may leak fluid or blood, causing rapid and severe damage to central vision.
Early diagnosis is critical. According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, intraocular injections can stop or slow the progression when started early.
Early stages may be silent. Over time, patients may experience:
• Blurring in the center of vision
• Faded or distorted colors
• Straight lines appearing wavy
• Letters disappearing while reading
• Dark or empty spots in central vision
Even one of these symptoms requires immediate examination by an eye specialist.
There is no single cause, but the risk increases with
• Advanced age
• Family history
• Smoking
• High cholesterol
• Poor diet
• Excessive sunlight exposure
• Atherosclerosis
Op. Dr. Diclehan highlights that smoking is one of the strongest environmental risk factors, and quitting smoking significantly slows disease progression.
• Most common in people aged 50+
• Slightly more frequent in women
• More common in fair-skinned individuals
Those with a family history should have annual retinal examinations.
Diagnosis is made through a comprehensive eye examination using:
• Fundus (retinal) examination
• OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
• Fluorescein angiography when needed
These tests help evaluate macular structure and detect leakage or abnormal blood vessels.
Although the disease cannot be completely cured, progression can be slowed and remaining vision preserved.
• Antioxidant-rich diet
• Vitamin supplements (A, C, E, zinc, lutein)
Lifestyle modification plays a key role.
• Anti-VEGF injections into the eye
• In selected cases, laser treatment
Treatment must always be personalized, notes Op. Dr. Diclehan.
Risk may be reduced by:
• Quitting smoking
• Eating a diet rich in vegetables & omega-3
• Using sunglasses outdoors
• Having regular eye examinations
“The best treatment is early prevention before vision loss occurs,” says Op. Dr. Diclehan.
Although the disease may affect quality of life, supportive visual aids such as magnifying glasses, special lighting and reading devices can help patients continue daily activities.
Psychological support is also important, and Op. Dr. Diclehan prioritizes patient comfort and emotional wellbeing throughout treatment
Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults. However, with early diagnosis, regular follow-up and appropriate treatment, its progression can be slowed.
Protecting eye health through proper nutrition, lifestyle management and regular check-ups plays a key role in preserving vision.
Op. Dr. Diclehan, an expert in eye health, applies up-to-date treatment approaches to help prevent further vision loss in patients with macular degeneration.
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