MACULAR DEGENERATION

Macular Degeneration Types:

-Atrophic (age-related) :dry -Exudative :wet

Populations at Risk: Greater than 60 yrs. Old Females > Males White > African American Smoking Obesity

http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/maculardegen/armd_facts.asp#1e

DRY TYPEDRY TYPE CAUSED BY: degeneration from age

-retinal cells become ischemic

S & S: blurring and distortion of central vision drusen formation

PREVENTION: Nutrition use of antioxidants beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C, vitamin E,

zinc, copper

WET TYPEWet type seen after a serous detachment of

pigment epithelium in the macula

S & S: sudden decrease in vision

Diagnostic TestsAnnual eye exams

Amsler Grid tests normal Fluorescein angiography (wet)

Treatment for Macular DegenerationDry Macular Degeneration: no treatment but

diet may help (various vitamins

Wet Macular Degeneration-Laser photocoagulation

-Photodynamic therapy (PDT) -Experimental treatments

NURSING MEASURES with PDTPre Therapy:

Teach patients the eye/skin sensitivity to sunlight Use lower watt lighting in home

Post Therapy: Avoid sunlight and bright lights Wear protective sunglasses when in light Check with MD before taking OTC Keep well hydrated