Cataracts

Cataracts develop when the lens inside your eye, which is typically clear, starts forming cloudy patches. Over time, these patches can grow, leading to blurry or misty vision and, in severe cases, blindness. It’s akin to a clear glass becoming frosted, limiting our vision. Cataracts can appear in both eyes, though they might not develop simultaneously or to the same extent in each eye. Read the full list of symptoms here.

As we age, our eye’s lens can undergo changes. Initially clear like glass, the lens can start to resemble frosted bathroom glass, restricting our vision. This clouding can impact daily activities, especially tasks like driving. While cataracts predominantly affect older adults, they can also be present in babies and young children.

Currently, there are no treatments for Best disease. 

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor medications (anti-VEGFs) are a category of drugs which stop or reduce the growth of new blood vessels. This can slow their leakage and slow down vision loss. Anti-VEGFs are not yet automatically available on the NHS for people with vitelliform macular dystrophy related CNV, but your ophthalmologist would be best placed to decide what treatment is needed in your case.

Gene therapy is currently being researched as a possible treatment for different types of inherited macular dystrophies. Gene therapy aims to replace the faulty gene with a new gene that works properly. Normal genes are injected into the retina using a harmless virus to carry the genetic material. The hope is that that affected retinal cells then begin to work properly and the damage is either stopped or reversed. A lot of this research is in early stages and may take many years before it could possibly become an established treatment, although this kind of research is a positive step forward.

There is no specific research as of yet to show that diet can help to slow down the progression of Best disease. However, a good diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables can help with eye health in general. Smoking is known to accelerate other forms of macular disease so it would be sensible to stop smoking as this possibly could help delay progression of Best disease too.

If you notice symptoms like blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, or faded colours, it’s advisable to see an optician. They will conduct various eye tests, including a visual acuity exam, to measure your vision at different distances. If cataracts are suspected, you may be referred to an eye specialist for further tests and potential treatment.

In the early stages, stronger glasses and enhanced lighting might suffice. However, as cataracts progress, the only proven effective treatment is surgery. This involves removing and replacing the affected lens. It’s a common and generally safe procedure that can restore vision. Read more about effective treatments here.

Currently, there are no treatments for Best disease. 

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor medications (anti-VEGFs) are a category of drugs which stop or reduce the growth of new blood vessels. This can slow their leakage and slow down vision loss. Anti-VEGFs are not yet automatically available on the NHS for people with vitelliform macular dystrophy related CNV, but your ophthalmologist would be best placed to decide what treatment is needed in your case.

Gene therapy is currently being researched as a possible treatment for different types of inherited macular dystrophies. Gene therapy aims to replace the faulty gene with a new gene that works properly. Normal genes are injected into the retina using a harmless virus to carry the genetic material. The hope is that that affected retinal cells then begin to work properly and the damage is either stopped or reversed. A lot of this research is in early stages and may take many years before it could possibly become an established treatment, although this kind of research is a positive step forward.

There is no specific research as of yet to show that diet can help to slow down the progression of Best disease. However, a good diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables can help with eye health in general. Smoking is known to accelerate other forms of macular disease so it would be sensible to stop smoking as this possibly could help delay progression of Best disease too.

Cataracts can impact your daily life, but with the right knowledge and care, they can be managed. It’s essential to have regular eye check-ups and be aware of any changes in your vision. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in maintaining your sight and quality of life. 

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