What is Macular Degeneration (Yellow Spot)?

Macular degeneration, also commonly known as yellow spot, is a small but critical area in the center of the retina, the layer of the eye responsible for sharp vision. Although only about 5 mm in diameter, this area is where vision is most clear and detailed. Macular degeneration is an area with a high concentration of photoreceptor cells that detect light. It allows us to perform tasks that require fine detail, such as threading a needle or reading a book. If the macula is not working properly, a person may see the area they are looking at as blurred or dark.

What are the Symptoms of Yellow Spot Disease?

Symptoms of dry yellow spot disease usually manifest themselves slowly and painlessly, progressing over time. In wet yellow spot disease, on the other hand, vision loss progresses much more rapidly and can become apparent suddenly. So, what are the symptoms of yellow spot disease?

Visual distortions, such as straight lines appearing curved or wavy.
Central vision loss in one or both eyes.
Need for more light during reading or detailed work.
Difficulty entering dimly lit environments; especially in places with little light, the eyes have difficulty adapting to the environment.
Increased blurriness when reading printed texts.
Decreased brightness and intensity of colors.
Difficulty recognizing faces.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist immediately.

If you are experiencing changes in central vision, or if you cannot see fine details and colors as clearly as you used to, you should seek help from a specialist to protect your eye health. Early detection and treatment can slow vision loss and help you maintain your quality of life.

Who Has Yellow Spot Disease?

Yellow spot disease is a condition that is observed with advancing age. Over time, as we age, our eyesight weakens, as do many functions of our body. The macula, the yellow spot, which is the hardest working part of the eye, loses its performance with the aging process. This condition is more common in individuals aged 60 and over.

Factors such as genetic predisposition, prolonged exposure to sunlight and smoking are among the factors that increase the risk of yellow spot disease. This disease, which occurs as a natural consequence of aging, can negatively affect quality of life. It can also cause vision loss. However, it is possible to reduce these risks with early diagnosis and correct precautions.

What are the Risks of Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, commonly known as yellow spot disease, is closely associated with several risk factors. Research shows that the following factors significantly increase the incidence of the disease:

Age: Yellow spot disease becomes more common with increasing age. Individuals aged 50 and over are particularly susceptible to this disease.

Genetic Factors: Yellow spot disease is thought to have a hereditary aspect. Individuals with a family history of this disease are at risk.

Race: It has been found that this disease is more common in Caucasians.

Smoking: Smoking or passive smoking is an important factor that increases the risk of yellow spot disease.

Obesity: It has been supported by research that obesity plays a role in the faster progression of yellow spot disease seen in the early stages.

Cardiovascular Diseases: Individuals with cardiovascular diseases are more likely to develop yellow spot disease.

Individuals who experience severe vision loss due to advanced yellow spot disease may face the risk of depression and social isolation over time. Some patients may develop visual hallucinations known as Charles Bonnet syndrome. These hallucinations are not caused by a psychological disorder. Patients may experience a variety of visual hallucinations, such as bursts of light, geometric shapes, patterns, faces, people, animals, landscapes, vehicles, buildings and even miniature figures. These images occur while the patient is conscious, outside of their control, and these hallucinations overlaying blurred vision are usually recognizable.

These conditions can negatively affect patients’ quality of life. Therefore, regular eye examinations and measures to address risk factors are of great importance.

How Long Does Yellow Spot Disease Progress?

The progression time of yellow spot disease depends on several factors, such as the type of disease and the general health of the individual. In some people, vision loss occurs slowly over years, while others may experience rapid progression within a few months. Early detection and the right treatment methods play a critical role in slowing the progression of the disease. Therefore, regular eye examinations and healthy living habits can help minimize vision loss.

Yellow Spot Disease Treatment

Although there is currently no definitive cure for yellow spot disease, various treatment modalities are available to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life. These treatment methods differ depending on the subtype of the disease. Treatment of dry macular degeneration aims to rehabilitate the vision of patients with low vision.

Eye health specialists may recommend surgical treatment if necessary. Within the scope of this treatment, the visual field of patients can be improved with telescopic lenses implanted into the eye. In wet macular degeneration, treatment focuses on eliminating the abnormal blood vessels that play a role in the development of the disease. To this end, drugs are injected into the eye to prevent abnormal blood vessel growth.

Types of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Yellow spot disease occurs in two different forms: dry type and wet type. The dry type is the most common form of yellow spot disease and is characterized by relatively slow progression. This form can often last for more than 10 years, from the onset of the disease until it reaches an advanced stage that severely affects vision.

In the dry type, metabolic debris builds up under the yellow spot, causing deposits called “drusen”, which are small foci of white-yellow color. Over time, the buildup of these deposits causes damage to nerve cells and vision declines. Wet yellow spot disease progresses more rapidly and can cause sudden vision loss. In this form, patients may experience painless but severe vision loss.

People with Age-Related Yellow Dot Treatment

People with age-related yellow spot treatment recover from serious vision loss. In this way, people who live more comfortably also end the problems they experience in their social life. Especially those with age-related yellow spot treatment can perform tasks that require fine details such as threading a needle or reading a book more easily. However, it is very important to consult a specialist and get information about the process before undergoing treatment.

Yellow Spot Disease Needle Cost

Yellow spot disease needle price may vary according to the needs of the patient. Costs may also increase according to the size of the area to be treated. In addition, the equipment of the hospital where the injection will be performed, the experience of the doctor and the quality of the materials to be used can also affect the costs. Therefore, it may not be correct and ethical to give a clear figure about yellow spot disease needle costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Macular Degeneration

When does yellow spot blind me?

Vision loss in the yellow spot develops over time. Therefore, after about 10 years, a person’s vision may be reduced to 0.1.

Is yellow spot disease genetic?

It is thought that yellow spot disease, which is usually seen in people over the age of 50, can also be caused by genetic reasons.

Can yellow spot disease be cured?

Early diagnosis or proper treatment of yellow spot disease can slow down the problem.

What is the best vitamin for yellow spot?

Zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, zeaxanthin, selenium and vitamins such as omega 3, A, C, and E may be recommended for yellow spot. But remember that your doctor will make the best decision.