Ask a doctor on the topic of Ophthalmology

dry macular degeneration

March 20, 2012 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Kathrin Hamann

Dear doctors,

Yesterday I received the shocking diagnosis of "early dry macular degeneration". I am 57 years old and so far have not noticed any impairments. The treating ophthalmologist was not willing to answer questions regarding the likely course of the disease. He said, it's impossible to predict. The only thing we can do is try to slow down the progression with a vitamin supplement.

I am plagued by severe existential fears, as I still have 9 years left until retirement (I am single). What will happen if I am blind in 5 years?

My question:
I have not found any statistics on the internet that at least capture the experiences of previous patients. For example, 20% notice reading restrictions after 5 years, after 10 years 60% are so visually impaired that reading and driving are no longer possible, etc. I am aware that the progression cannot be predicted. However, it would greatly help me to be able to create a future prognosis with a certain level of probability. I am completely overwhelmed and have not slept last night.

Thank you in advance.

Best regards

Dr. med. Kathrin Hamann

Dear patient,

First of all, I would like to reassure you. Dry macular degeneration does not lead to blindness quickly.
In most cases, patients notice a very slow, gradual deterioration of vision. This is often attributed to aging and not further investigated. Therefore, AMD is often only recognized very late.

May I ask what led you to see the eye doctor for an examination and whether the eye doctor performed an OCT?

With vitamins in tablet form, as well as drops or eye injections, it is possible to significantly slow down the process of AMD. If treated in time, the process can even be stopped.

Please do not worry.
I am happy to answer any further questions you may have.

Best regards,
Dr. K. Hamann