What is Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)? is the loss of central vision, usually in both eyes, and is considered an incurable eye disease. It is the leading cause of vision loss in people ages 65 & older, more than glaucoma and cataracts combined.
There are 2 forms of AMD: Dry & Wet. Both forms deal with the macula (small oval area equipped with cells specialized for visual acuity) which is in the center of the retina and is only the size of a pencil eraser but symptoms and treatment differ.
Dry AMD:
- 85-90% of AMD patients are diagnosed with this type.
- Patients may have good central vision (20/40 or better) but substantial functional limitations, including fluctuating vision, difficulty reading because of their limited area of central vision, limited vision at night or under conditions of reduced illumination.
- Causes a blurred central vision or blind spots and can turn to Wet AMD at any time
- The deterioration of the retina is associated with the formation of small yellow deposits, known as drusen, under the macula. This leads to a thinning and drying out of the macula, causing the macula to lose its function. The amount of central vision loss is directly related to the location and amount of retinal thinning caused by the drusen.
- The treatment for dry AMD is generally nutritional therapy, with a healthy diet high in antioxidants to support the cells of the macula.
Wet AMD:
- Approximately 10-15% of the cases of macular degeneration are the “wet” type.
- Abnormal blood vessels (known as choroidal neovascularization or CNV) grow under the retina and macula. These new blood vessels may then bleed and leak fluid, causing the macula to bulge or lift up from its normally flat position, thus distorting or destroying central vision. Under these circumstances, vision loss may be rapid and severe.
- Patients may see a dark spot (or spots) in the center of their vision due to blood or fluid under the macula. Straight lines may look wavy because the macula is no longer smooth. Side or “peripheral” vision is rarely affected.
- Symptoms usually appear and progress rapidly.
- Treatments for wet AMD include laser photocoagulation or anti-VEGF therapy – which is periodic intravitreal (into the eye) injection. VEGF stands for vascular endothelial growth factor and is currently, the most common and effective clinical treatment.
Annual eye exams that include dilating the eye is the best way for your ophthalmologist to check for any changes in your eye health.
Risk factors for AMD are:
- Older than 50
- Family history of AMD
- History of smoking
- Obesity
- High blood pressure/cholesterol
- Lack of vitamins prevalent in fruits and vegetables
Call Dr. Wise’s Office to schedule your annual eye exam today! (609) 652-1010
