Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people aged 50 and older. It’s estimated that nearly 20 million Americans have some form of AMD, and the risk increases significantly with age. By age 75, nearly one in three Americans may have AMD. AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina, which is responsible for sharp, central vision. Left untreated, AMD can lead to severe vision loss and blindness. Learn more about what AMD is, AMD symptoms, AMD causes, AMD prevention, and how to get AMD treatment.

WHAT IS AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION?

Age-related macular degeneration is a condition that damages the macula, the small central portion of the retina at the back of the eye. The macula is what allows you to see fine details clearly and to recognize faces, read, and drive. With AMD, this critical part of the eye deteriorates, causing blurred or distorted central vision while peripheral vision usually remains intact.

There are two main types of AMD:

Dry AMD: The most common form. It progresses slowly as the macula thins and small deposits called drusen build up.
Wet AMD: Less common but more severe. Abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, leading to rapid vision loss.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF AMD?

Your eye doctor is the only one who can definitively diagnose AMD. However, if you notice one or more AMD symptoms, you should schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

AMD SYMPTOMS

Blurred or fuzzy central vision
A dark, empty, or blind spot in the center of your vision
Distortion of straight lines (they may appear wavy or bent)
Difficulty recognizing faces
Needing brighter light for reading or close work
Colors appearing less vivid or washed out
Slower adjustment to dim lighting
Trouble with tasks requiring fine detail, like sewing or reading small print

AMD symptoms may come on gradually (with dry AMD) or suddenly (with wet AMD). Early detection is critical, so contact your eye doctor at Kirman Eye if you notice any changes in your vision.

WHAT CAUSES AMD?

The exact cause of AMD isn’t fully understood, but aging and genetics play a strong role. Certain lifestyle factors and health conditions can also raise your risk.

AMD RISK FACTORS

Aging (most common in adults over 50)
Family history of AMD
Smoking (doubles your risk)
High blood pressure or cardiovascular disease
Obesity
High cholesterol
Light eye color (blue or green eyes are more at risk)
Prolonged sun exposure without UV protection

AMD PREVENTION

There is no guaranteed way to prevent AMD, but lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk or slow its progression.

WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF AMD

Do not smoke
Eat a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids
Maintain a healthy weight
Manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes
Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection
Exercise regularly
Take eye supplements if recommended by your doctor (AREDS2 formula has been shown to slow AMD progression in some patients)
Have regular comprehensive eye exams that include Optomap Imaging or dilation

LIVING WITH AMD

AMD can’t be cured, but there are ways to manage it and protect your remaining vision. If you are diagnosed with AMD, your eye doctor may recommend:

Using magnifying glasses or electronic reading aids
Increasing lighting in your home and work areas
Using high-contrast or large-print books and devices
Relying more on peripheral vision strategies
Talking to your doctor about vision rehabilitation programs

WHAT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT YOUR AMD

It’s important to keep your eye doctor informed about changes in your vision. If you notice rapid vision loss, wavy lines, or new blind spots, seek immediate medical attention, as these may be signs of wet AMD.

TREATMENT FOR AMD

Treatment depends on whether you have dry AMD or wet AMD.

DRY AMD TREATMENT

No cure exists, but progression may be slowed with diet, lifestyle changes, and vitamin therapy.

WET AMD TREATMENT

Anti-VEGF injections: Medications injected into the eye to stop abnormal blood vessels from growing and leaking.
Laser therapy: Sometimes used to destroy abnormal blood vessels.
Photodynamic therapy: A light-activated drug treatment that targets abnormal vessels.

The very best thing you can do for AMD is to have regular eye exams and follow your doctor’s recommendations. Early detection and treatment can help preserve vision for many years. For more information about AMD treatment or to schedule an appointment, please contact our office today.