040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
What Is Drusen? - Causes, Types, and Eye Health Impact
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Gargi Apte Jankar , Ophthalmologists
Drusen are yellow or white deposits that form under the retina, often associated with ageing. They affect the eye, particularly the macula, which is responsible for sharp central vision. While small drusen can be harmless, larger ones may indicate early signs of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can potentially lead to vision problems.
What are the Drusen Symptoms and Warning Signs?
Drusen often develop silently, especially in the early stages, making regular eye checkups essential. However, as they progress, especially in cases linked to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), certain signs can aid in early detection and timely care.
Common Symptoms
- Blurred or slightly distorted vision in the centre.
- Difficulty seeing in low light or dim environments
- Colours appear less bright or vivid
- A need for more light when reading
Severe Symptoms
- Straight lines appearing wavy or bent (metamorphopsia)
- A dark or empty spot in the centre of vision
- Rapid worsening of visual clarity
- Loss of central vision in one or both eyes
What are the Different Types of Drusen?
Drusen are generally categorised based on their size, appearance, and underlying cause. Understanding these types helps assess the risk of vision problems, especially related to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Hard Drusen
- Small, distinct, and well-defined edges
- Often seen in ageing eyes without significant vision loss
- Usually not linked to severe retinal conditions
Soft Drusen
- Larger, with blurred edges
- Tend to cluster together
- Associated with a higher risk of developing AMD
Retinal Drusen (Familial Dominant Drusen)
- Inherited and appear earlier in life
- Can resemble soft drusen but progress differently
- May cause visual changes in younger individuals
Optic Disc Drusen
- Found in the optic nerve head, not the retina
- Can be visible or buried
- May affect peripheral vision over time
What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Drusen?
Drusen form beneath the retina due to the buildup of waste from the eye's natural metabolic processes. While small deposits are familiar with ageing, specific causes and risk factors can increase the risk of progression to eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Causes
- Ageing retinal tissue leads to the accumulation of cellular debris
- Genetic predisposition, especially with a family history of AMD
- Chronic inflammation in the retina
Risk Factors
- Age (more common in people over 60)
- Smoking, which impairs retinal health
- High cholesterol and hypertension
- Obesity, which may accelerate drusen growth
- A poor diet lacking antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids
- Prolonged sun exposure without eye protection
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionHow is Drusen Diagnosed?
Diagnosing drusen involves a thorough eye examination to assess retinal health and detect early signs of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Early detection enables timely management, helping to preserve vision.
Common Diagnostic Tests:
- Dilated Eye Exam: Allows detailed examination of the retina and optic nerve
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides cross-sectional imaging to view drusen size and location
- Fundus Photography: Captures high-resolution images of the retina
- Fluorescein Angiography: Detects abnormal blood vessel growth or leakage
- Autofluorescence Imaging: Identifies retinal changes linked to drusen buildup
What are the Treatment Options for Drusen?
Drusen themselves often don't require treatment, especially in the early stages. However, their presence exceptionally soft drusen can signal a risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Managing drusen focuses on slowing disease progression and preserving vision.
Treatment Options
- Nutritional Therapy: Supplements rich in antioxidants, zinc, and vitamins C and E (based on AREDS2 guidelines) may help reduce the risk of AMD progression in patients with large drusen.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Quitting smoking, eating a diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids, managing cholesterol levels, and wearing UV-protective eyewear can support retinal health.
- Monitoring and Follow-ups: Regular OCT scans and retinal imaging are crucial for tracking any changes in drusen size or visual quality.
- Advanced Therapies (if AMD develops): Anti-VEGF injections may be recommended if wet AMD develops due to complications from drusen.
Medicover's Approach:
At Our Hospitals, ophthalmologists tailor treatments based on the type, size, and risk of progression of drusen. Our team emphasises proactive care with dietary guidance, advanced retinal imaging, and ongoing monitoring.
When to See a Doctor?
While small drusen may not cause noticeable symptoms, early medical evaluation is key to preventing vision loss, especially if you're at risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
See a doctor if you experience
- Blurred or distorted central vision lasting more than a few days
- Difficulty seeing in dim lighting
- A dark or empty spot in the centre of your vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy or bent
High-risk groups who should consult an eye specialist promptly:
- Adults over 60 years old
- Individuals with a family history of AMD
- Smokers or those with high blood pressure or cholesterol
- Diabetics or people with poor dietary habits
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Consult Drusen Doctors Today
What is the Recovery Process After Drusen Treatment?
Recovery after drusen management focuses more on ongoing care than on a single procedure. Since there's no surgical removal for drusen, the goal is to monitor and prevent progression to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Follow-up Schedule
- Regular eye exams every 6-12 months
- OCT scans to monitor changes in drusen size and retinal health
- Immediate checkups if vision changes occur
Lifestyle and Diet Recommendations
- Eat a diet rich in leafy greens, colourful vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Avoid smoking and manage blood pressure and cholesterol
- Use sunglasses with UV protection to safeguard the retina
What Precautions Can Help Prevent Drusen?
While drusen cannot always be prevented, certain habits can reduce their development and lower the risk of progression to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Prevention
- Maintain a nutrient-rich diet with leafy greens, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
- Manage chronic conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol
- Protect your eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses
- Get regular eye screenings, especially after age 50
Complications if Left Untreated
- Gradual loss of central vision
- Increased risk of advanced dry or wet AMD
- Difficulty with tasks requiring sharp vision, such as reading or driving
Our Experience in Treating Drusen
At Medicover Hospitals, we understand the concern that comes with vision changes. Our ophthalmology team brings years of experience in diagnosing and managing drusen with compassion and precision. Using advanced retinal imaging and specific care plans, we focus on preserving your vision and supporting your eye health every step of the way.
