In comparison with macular dystrophy, macular degeneration is typically an age related disease process of the macula. Wear and tear. It is far more common than macular dystrophy. In fact macular degeneration is the most common cause for “legal blindness” for people over the age of 65. Experts define legal blindness as a reduction of best corrected vision (meaning vision with best glasses or contact lenses) to 20/200 or less. Macular degeneration, although it has hereditary components, does not follow clear hereditary patterns. So, not all people with a family history of macular degeneration will suffer from the disease. Other risk factors for age related macular degeneration include: advancing age, exposure to UV radiation, smoking, obesity, and diets low in specific carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin
As you can see, a number of these risk factors for the development of macular degeneration are “modifiable” and as such within our control.
There are 2 types. Dry, which cannot be treated, and Wet, you may need regular eye injections and occasionally a light treatment called to stop your vision getting worse.
Vitamin A is recommended for Macular Degeneration but not for Macular dystrophy.
My Macular Dystrophy is linked to genetic mutations that, for no apparent reason, other than the gene is faulty triggers degradation of retinal cells. Some forms of macular dystrophy appear in childhood, and other forms appear in adulthood. Like mine in my 40’s.
It is classed as a rare disease and therefore unfortunately doesn’t get enough awareness and nobody has ever seemed to have heard of it unless you yourself have it or someone you know.
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