Advik Singh
The human eye is an incredibly complicated organ designed to capture light and send visual signals to the brain. But when the blood vessels in the retina—the eye’s vital light-sensing layer—go awry, they can cause serious vision issues. One major consequence of these vascular changes is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the ultimate cause of vision loss.
In this article, we’ll explore how abnormal blood vessels affect vision and the link between AMD and vascular health, as well as discuss innovative treatments that are changing the way we manage these conditions.
The retina is essential for capturing light and turning it into signals the brain can interpret as images. But how does it stay healthy, and why do blood vessels matter so much? Let’s break it down:
The macula, which is in the centre of the retina, is crucial for sharp, central vision (used for reading, recognising faces, and driving).
The retina depends on a network of blood vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients while also removing waste products to keep it functioning optimally.
In a healthy eye, blood vessels grow in a balanced, regulated way.
However, in conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), these blood vessels can grow abnormally or become leaky, which disrupts the retina's ability to work properly. Why does this happen, and what can be done about it? Keep reading to find out.
When blood vessels in the eye mature abnormally or leak fluid, they can distort the macula, causing blurry or distorted central vision. Over time, this can lead to retinal cell damage and, in severe cases, permanent vision loss. Common consequences of abnormal blood vessels in the eye include:
1. Blurry or distorted vision: As blood vessels leak fluid into the retina or grow where they shouldn’t, the macula can swell, causing visual distortions. People with this condition may experience straight lines appearing wavy or objects looking blurry.
2. Blind spots: As the retina becomes damaged, blind spots or dark patches may form in central vision. This makes activities such as reading, driving, or recognising faces difficult or impossible.
3. Loss of central vision: The macula plays a critical role in sharp, central vision. Abnormal blood vessels can cause this area to deteriorate, leading to the loss of high-resolution vision.
4. Retinal haemorrhages: In some cases, abnormal blood vessels can rupture, leading to haemorrhages in the retina. This can cause sudden and significant vision loss, especially if the bleeding is severe.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a top cause of abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. This condition primarily affects the macula and is mainly linked to ageing, though genetic and environmental factors can also play a role. AMD comes in two main types: dry AMD and wet AMD.
Dry AMD is more common but less severe. It involves the gradual thinning of the retina, which leads to slow vision loss. However, it doesn’t typically involve abnormal blood vessel growth.
Wet AMD, on the other hand, is characterised by the development of new, abnormal blood vessels under the retina. These blood vessels are fragile and may leak fluid or blood, resulting in swift vision loss if left untreated.
Wet AMD is often the more serious form of the disease due to the rapid damage it can cause to the macula. The abnormal blood vessels associated with this condition can cause scarring and permanent damage to retinal tissue, making early detection and treatment crucial.
When abnormal blood vessels develop in the eyes, it’s important to address them quickly to prevent vision loss. There are many treatment options that can help manage these conditions and preserve vision. These include:
Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications like Eylea injection containing the active ingredient Aflibercept work by inhibiting the growth of abnormal blood vessels and decreasing fluid leakage, helping to treat wet AMD.
Avastin (Bevacizumab): Originally developed for cancer, Avastin is used off-label for retinal diseases by blocking VEGF, preventing abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage.
Laser Surgery: Laser surgery may be used to destroy abnormal blood vessels in the retina, although it’s less common today due to the effectiveness of anti-VEGF treatments.
Abnormal blood vessels in the eye can severely impact vision, especially when conditions like macular degeneration cause fragile, leaky vessels. If left untreated, these problems can lead to permanent vision loss. Early detection through routine eye exams is vital, especially for those at more increased risk due to age or family history. Identifying retinal abnormalities early allows for timely treatments to slow progression and preserve vision.
With ongoing advancements in ophthalmology, future innovations hold the promise of even more effective treatments, offering hope to millions worldwide.
