My "Kind" of Macular Degeneration

By Marjorie Alden

1 min read

Last updated: August 2022

At my last appointment in Boston, I was told my macular degeneration is caused by a lack of blood circulation to the choroid layer of my eye...the retina is starving for blood.

Have other people heard this?

I have a flashing light on the outer edges of my vision.

Does anyone else out there see these flashing lights?

What is your macular degeneration like?

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Brown Eyed Girl Moderator
<inline-mention username="Marjorie Alden" user-id="4255479"/> I haven't heard about the cause of macular degeneration that you speak of. Hopefully, another community member will have some experience of this and be able to share with you. Regarding the flashing lights at the edge of your vision - yes - I have those on both sides. I only see them in a very dark room when I look from side to side. I told my retina specialist at my last visit. She asked lots of questions, and then did her usual full examination. I don't think she actually said what it was. It has only started since I had vitreous detachment in both eyes. This is just my experience and we are all different. It would be a good question for your doctor. Warm wishes, Wendy, Patient Leader.
Marjorie Alden Member
I have never had an detachment--they always check for that--mine seems to be the lack of circulation to the retinas-thanks for your comments!! 
1. Brown Eyed Girl Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Marjorie Alden" user-id="4255479"/> my doctor always checks for detached retinas too. I've never had that. What I have had is detachment of the vitreous gel which happens to many people as they get older. It is quite common. Best wishes, Wendy, Patient Leader.
Marjorie Alden Member
I was told you can have that gel replaced--have the doctors mentioned that?
1. Brown Eyed Girl Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Marjorie Alden" user-id="4255479"/> no, that hasn't been mentioned to me. I'll ask my doctor about it. Best wishes, Wendy, Patient Leader. 
2. Sharon Moore Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Marjorie Alden" user-id="4255479"/> if you are referring to the vitreous fluid in the eye, yes it can be with a vitrectomy. I have so many floaters my retinal specialist has recommended that I consider doing it as my macular degeneration progresses. A laser procedure is also being used for floaters but I am reluctant to have any type laser treatment. The YAG laser procedure made my dry eyes worse. Warm wishes, Sharon Moore Patient Leader

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