Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in people over 50. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision needed for activities like reading, driving, and recognising faces. Age-related macular degeneration can significantly impact your quality of life and finding treatment is vital
There are two main types of AMD:
- Dry AMD: This is the more common form (85% of cases) and progresses slowly. It’s characterised by the buildup of drusen (tiny yellow deposits) under the macula, causing gradual thinning of the macula and vision loss.
- Wet AMD: This is less frequent but more aggressive. Abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula, leaking fluid or blood and leading to rapid vision loss.
Early Detection of Age-related Macular degeneration
Early detection of AMD is key for preserving vision because the vision loss in AMD can be irreversible. Once vision cells in the macula are damaged, they cannot be repaired. Early detection allows for intervention before significant vision loss occurs. Similarly, treatment is most effective in the early stages. Early intervention with dry AMD management or wet AMD treatment can significantly slow progression and preserve vision.
Regular Eye Exams
Everybody should schedule regular eye exams, especially if you’re over 50 or have a family history of AMD. During an exam, your ophthalmologist will:
- Dilate your pupils: This widens the opening in your eye, allowing a clearer view of the macula.
- Examine your macula: They will look for signs of AMD, such as drusen, abnormal blood vessels, or deposits of fluid or blood.
- Test your vision: This may involve an Amsler grid test, which can detect distortions in central vision, a common symptom of AMD.
Treatment Options for AMD
There is currently no cure for AMD, but there are treatments that can slow its progression and preserve vision, depending on the type:
- Dry AMD: While there’s no specific medication, certain steps can help manage it:
- Nutritional Supplements: Specific formulations of vitamins and minerals, rich in antioxidants, have been shown to reduce the risk of progression to advanced AMD.
- Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish, quitting smoking, and managing weight are crucial.
- Wet AMD: Anti-VEGF injections are the mainstay of treatment. These injections are given directly into the eye and block the growth of abnormal blood vessels, reducing fluid leakage and preventing further vision loss. Injections are typically given monthly at first, with the frequency adjusted based on your response.
Visiting a specialist ophthalmologist will ensure you access the best possible treatment plan for your condition and its stage of progression.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Eye Health
- Protect your eyes from UV rays: Wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays to shield your eyes from sun damage, a risk factor for AMD.
- Manage other health conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity can increase your risk of AMD. Maintaining good control of these conditions with your doctor is important.
- Regular eye exams: Continue with regular eye exams to monitor your AMD and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Visit Miss Anna Grabowska to Discuss AMD
Miss Anna Grabowska is an experienced Consultant Ophthalmic & Retinal Surgeon. She works with many patients with AMD and looks to find the best possible treatment plans to manage symptoms and minimise vision loss. Get in touch to discuss your circumstances and book an initial appointment today.