Macular degeneration and Glaucoma are eye conditions that may lead to vision loss. They share similar symptoms and risk factors, such as age, but they differ in the part of the eye affected and how doctors treat them.
Although both conditions can affect vision, different eye areas sustain damage. In macular degeneration, the centre part of the retina deteriorates, whereas glaucoma impacts the optic nerve and affects peripheral vision. It is important to know the differences between these 2 eye conditions.
Overview of Glaucoma:
Glaucoma involves damage to the optic nerve in the eye. It can develop if fluid made by the eye does not flow out correctly. If this occurs, eye pressure may increase. Although there are different types of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of the condition.
Glaucoma may not cause any symptoms initially, so some people do not know they have it. Once symptoms and vision changes start, they may include:
- tunnel vision
- gradual loss of side vision
- blurred vision
Glaucoma can develop in anyone, but certain high-risk groups include a person who:
- is over 60 years old
- has a family history of glaucoma
- has diabetes
- is African American
- has severe myopia (near-sightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness)
Overview of Macular Degeneration:
Macular degeneration affects the retina, which is responsible for central vision in the eye. It collects images a person sees and transmits them to the optic nerve. When damage to central vision occurs, it interferes with a person’s ability to see well enough to drive, read, and recognize faces.
The symptoms and vision changes related to macular degeneration include:
- hazy vision
- colours appearing less vibrant
- gradual central vision loss
- light sensitivity
- written text appearing blurry
Certain factors may increase a person’s chances of developing macular degeneration:
- being over 60 years old
- family history of macular degeneration
- smoking
- having high blood pressure
- having obesity
Overall, Macular degeneration and glaucoma both affect the eyes and can lead to vision loss.
It is not always possible to prevent either eye condition, but regular eye exams may increase the chances of an early diagnosis and ensure treatment starts promptly. Although there is no cure, treatment may help slow vision loss. It is vital to start treatment as early as possible to preserve vision.
Tarun Sharma is a consultant ophthalmic surgeon who carries out his NHS work at Worcestershire Acute NHS Trust since his appointment in 2007.