Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, commonly referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is the single largest cause of vision loss in the developed world and affects more than 10 million Americans. It usually affects people over the age of 60, but has been known to affect those who are younger. It is a painless condition that usually affects both eyes, with the loss being experienced in the central vision. It does not affect the peripheral vision, meaning that it does not cause total blindness.

What is the macula?

The macula is the most sensitive part of the retina and is responsible for our central vision and what allows us to see fine details with clarity.

Types of AMD

Wet AMD

Wet AMD is one type of the condition in which abnormal blood vessels grow into the macula, leaking blood or fluid. This causes scarring and a rapid loss of central vision. Wet AMD can develop suddenly and rapid referral to a specialist is essential, as it can be treated if caught quickly.

Dry AMD

Dry AMD is the most common type of age-related macular degeneration and is a gradual deterioration of the retina as the cells die off over time and are not regenerated. Up to 15% of people with dry AMD go on to develop wet AMD, and so any sudden changes in your vision should be followed up with your ophthalmologist or optometrist as soon as possible.

Symptoms of macular degeneration

Macular degeneration affects each person differently, which means that it can sometimes be difficult to diagnose, particularly as you may not notice any change in your vision early on in the condition. However, as the cells deteriorate, you will start to see an increasing range of symptoms, including:

• Distortion or bends in what should be straight lines (such as lampposts or door frames)

• Dark spots in your central vision

• Fading colors

• Difficulty adapting from dark to light environments

• Blurred vision

• Objects may appear to change shape, size or color, or may move or disappear

• Bright lights may be difficult to tolerate

• Words may disappear while you are reading
  
  

Is there any way I can reduce my risk of developing AMD?

Unfortunately, there is no clear reason as to what triggers the process that causes macular degeneration. However, you are at an increased risk if you have a family history of the condition, or if you are over 60.

Studies suggest that the best thing you can do to minimize any potential risk is to ensure that you live a healthy, active lifestyle. You can do this by:

• Stopping smoking

• Eating a healthy, balanced diet, with plenty of leafy, green vegetables

• Moderating your alcohol consumption

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Getting regular exercise
  
  

Treatment for AMD

Dry AMD

AREDS2 vitamins are recommended for early to intermediate dry macular degeneration. These vitamins decrease the risk of progression to wet macular degeneration, but do not reverse vision loss.

Wet AMD

Wet AMD can be treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medication, which is an injection into the eye. This should stop additional blood vessels from developing and stop your vision from deteriorating further. Newer injections are now available that allow less frequent injections and doctor visits.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding macular degeneration, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.