The link between age-related macular degeneration (AMD ) and cataracts.

amd

Illustration of person with and without cataract

Understanding cataracts and AMD

cataracts

A cataract is an eye condition characterized by the progressive opacification of the crystalline lens, the natural lens of the eye. Normally transparent, the crystalline lens becomes cloudy over time, leading to blurred vision, reduced visual acuity and increased sensitivity to glare. Common risk factors for cataracts include aging, excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays, smoking, certain systemic diseases and the use of certain medications.

Symptoms include :

Reduced vision
Poor contrast perception
Difficulty distinguishing relief
Impaired color vision

Anatomy of the eye with and without cataracts

AMD is a degenerative disease that affects the macula, a small area of the retina responsible for central vision and the perception of fine detail. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50. It is divided into two main forms: dry AMD, which progresses slowly, and wet AMD, which is more severe and progresses rapidly. Common risk factors for AMD include age, heredity, smoking, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, a diet low in antioxidants and certain cardiovascular problems.

Illustration of the vision of a person without cataracts

Illustration of the vision of a person with cataracts

We have published another article where you can learn more about AMD and its risk factors.

Symptoms include :

Blurry or fuzzy vision
Difficulty recognizing familiar faces
Straight lines appear wavy
A dark, empty area or blind spot appears in the center of vision
Loss of central vision, which is necessary for driving, reading, recognizing faces and performing close-up work

Illustration of the loss of central vision in people with AMD

Anatomy of the eye with and without AMD

Common risk factors

Several risk factors are shared by cataracts and AMD, suggesting a potential link between these two conditions.

Advanced age is the main common risk factor for both conditions,
as they are more common in older people. Epidemiological studies have also identified other common risk factors,
including smoking, excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, poor diet,
and a family history of cataracts or AMD.

These risk factors may contribute to the development and progression of both conditions and may help explain why some people develop both cataracts and AMD.

Illustration of the central vision of a person with cataracts and AMD

Cataract surgery

In almost all cases, cataracts can be treated extremely effectively by surgery. Surgical treatment involves removing the crystalline lens from inside the eye, which is then replaced by a tiny, clear, plastic, artificial lens.

Cataract surgery is generally an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient can go home the same day. After the operation, it is important to follow the ophthalmologist's post-operative instructions, particularly regarding medications to be taken, eye care and activities to be avoided during the recovery period.

Cataracts and AMD

In recent years, epidemiological studies have been carried out with contradictory results, sparking debate within the medical community. The central question is whether a patient suffering from both cataract and AMD can undergo cataract surgery without risking the progression of AMD.

Some concerns have been raised about a possible increased risk of developing late AMD following cataract surgery, although it can improve vision. However, recent studies have refuted these potential links. In short, cataract surgery does not appear to contribute to the worsening of AMD.

It should be noted that dense cataracts can sometimes mask the symptoms of AMD. When these dense cataracts are removed and replaced by artificial intraocular lenses, the final clarity of vision will depend on the severity of the underlying AMD. In addition, the characteristic symptoms of AMD, such as distortion or blurring, may become more noticeable once the cataract has been removed. It is therefore important to note that some people may have mistakenly concluded that surgery had worsened their progression of AMD.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, cataract surgery does not worsen AMD. Studies have found no link between cataract surgery and the progression of AMD. While dense cataracts can mask AMD symptoms, removing them can lead to better clarity of vision. Cataract surgery effectively treats cataracts by replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial one. Overall, cataract surgery is safe and can greatly improve vision, but its impact on AMD depends on the severity of the underlying condition. Consulting with an ophthalmologist is essential for personalized treatment decisions.

You can also have access to personalized lifestyle recommendations to prevent AMD by visiting www.macutest.com.

Bibliography

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