congenital macular degeneration

[highlymyopic]

i've had high myopia since birth.was diagnosed with macular dystophy at the age of 10 .i've been wearing -8D glasses (both eyes ) since the age of 2.i'm 23 years old now .my current eye power is around -12D in both the eyes.But i dont notice any significant change in visual acuity with these glasses vis-a-vis -8D glasses (due to macular dystrophy) .But with -12D glasses,my near vision is very blurred.So i continue wearing -8D glasses.
i've gotten used to -8D glasses.i dont want to wear 12D glasses (since there's no improvement in visual acuity)
should this be ok??

[berrywoo]

in many states (i think 39) they allow for the use of bioptic glasses for those with low vision. See if your state is one of them. Then look into obtaining a pair and getting into a rehab driving course that specializes in teaching bioptic driving.
If you live in a state that does not allow bioptic driving then unfortunately you will not be able to obtain a driver's liscense, if vision in both eyes is 20/200 best corrected.

However, if you are legally blind you will quality for special transit, which many cities offer to help the disabled.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

If your best corrected visual acuity at distance is 20/200 or worse IN BOTH EYES. AND the condition is permanent and cannot be improved then you are legally blind and might benefit from a visual aid evaluation or vocational or occupational therapy training.  Most states have a services for the blind (terrible name) bureau.

JCH MD

[highlymyopic]

my visual acuity is around 20/200 with glasses.My distance vision is very poor.But my near vision seems to be fine.i'm able to read small print without my glasses.But i need to hold books very close to my eyes all the time which is very uncomfortable and embarrassing.
do i qualify for low vision aids???

[berrywoo]

vitreous degeneration is actually a good thing as long as it does not result in a retinal tear/detachment. When the vitreous has completely liquefied and pulled away from the retina it will lessen your chances of RD from the traction that it exerts.

I would say your main problem is the macular degeneration. That needs to be well monitored.
You don't say what exactly your visual acuity is, but if it's worse than 20/70 you can probably go visit a low vision specialist and s/he can evaluate your needs and make recommendations for visual aides if necessary. Also, as the macular degeneration progresses you need to consider how your life will need to be adjusted, for example, transportation, daily living skills, orientation and mobility. There are plenty of resources which will offer you help, support and information (including online).

Hopefully, it will be a long time before you have to deal with the harsh realities of advanced macular degeneration, but remember it is possible to live a fully independent life even with a visual impairment.
Good luck!

[highlymyopic]

Thank you doctor for your timely and quick reply.
I've got lots of problems with my eyes along with congenital high myopia.My RS just keeps saying "need to keep a watch".i go to him regularly.
The vitreous in my eye is melting faster than ice melts!! .I see floaters and flashees.I can literally see the vitreous flowing within both my eyes.It looks like water flowing inside a white plastic bottle.I've got that macular problem as well.my visual acuity is very poor even with glasses on.i see peripheral flashes all the time.
What do i do?????? is there any way i can prevent or lessen this degeneration???? i'm just in my early twenties.i dont want these old age problems to bog me down at this age.
i've completely lost interest in life.any advice ,doctor??

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

If you can't tell any difference in acuity between -8 and -12 you will not hurt your eye wearing -8 and your near vision will be better than -12

JCH MD