Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in the developed world, affecting over 10 million Americans. While it typically affects individuals over 60, younger people can also develop the condition. AMD is painless and usually impacts both eyes, causing a gradual loss of central vision. It does not affect peripheral vision, so it does not lead to total blindness.

What is the macula?

The macula is the part of the retina that is responsible for sharp, central vision and our ability to see fine details clearly. In AMD, deposits called drusen develop in the macula which messes up the contour and distorts vision.

Types of AMD

Dry AMD is the more common form of age-related macular degeneration. It involves the development drusen in the macula. As the disease progresses, the drusen will grow and combine to create bigger deposits, which will lead to more distortion. While this process is gradual, some people with dry AMD will develop wet AMD. Any sudden changes in vision should be promptly checked by an optometrist.

Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels called neovascularization form in the macula and leak blood or fluid. This causes scarring and a rapid loss of central vision. Wet AMD can develop quickly, and prompt referral to an ophthalmologist who specializes in the retina is crucial, as early treatment can help preserve vision.

Symptoms of macular degeneration

Symptoms of AMD will vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include:

• 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

Reducing the Risk of Developing AMD

While the exact causes of macular degeneration are not fully understood, certain factors can increase your risk, including a family history of the condition, age (over 60), gender (females more than males), and race (caucasians are at higher risk). To help reduce your risk, experts recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as:

• Quitting smoking

• Eating dark, green, leafy vegetables such as spinach or kale

• Limiting fast food

• Protecting your eyes from UV rays

Treatment for AMD

Unfortunately, there is no cure for macular degeneration. For dry AMD, treatments focus on lowering risk of developing wet AMD, which includes specialized eye vitamins and frequent eye exams. In patients with advanced dry AMD and a loss of central vision, treatment may focus on helping patients maximize their remaining vision. This can include using magnifying glasses for reading and other visual aids.

For wet AMD, the primary treatment involves anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medications, which help prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels and further vision loss.

In some cases, laser therapy may be considered to destroy abnormal blood vessels and decrease the demand for oxygen in the peripheral retina.

If you have concerns or questions about macular degeneration, it's important to consult with your optometrist, who can provide guidance and support tailored to your needs. Schedule an appointment today, and See the Difference with Sight To See Eyecare & Eyewear.