Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is an eye condition that causes a loss of central vision. As the leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 70, macular degeneration is a significant problem that’s often untreated and undertreated.
Types of AMD:
Wet AMD
Wet AMD is much less common than dry AMD, but it’s more severe. This form of late-stage AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels develop beneath the retina. These new vessels can scar the macula by leaking fluids. Wet AMD causes more rapid vision loss than dry AMD, but dry AMD can develop into wet AMD at any stage. About half of patients with severe vision loss have wet AMD.
Dry AMD
Dry AMD is caused by the atrophy of the retinal pigment beneath the retina. This causes the loss of photoreceptors in the central portion of the eye, leading to central vision loss. Most people with AMD have dry AMD. A small portion of those with dry AMD can have severe vision loss to Geographic Atrophy or GA. GA is the more severe form of dry AMD.
Symptoms of AMD
Many patients don’t notice any changes to their vision in the early stages of macular degeneration. However, as the disease progresses, patients may notice worsened vision, blurry vision, difficulty reading the fine print, and dark or blurry areas in the center of their vision.
Treating AMD
It’s a common misconception that there’s no treatment available for age-related macular degeneration. For certain patients, a vitamin preparation with high doses of certain antioxidants can significantly reduce vision loss.
Early exams for AMD can identify patients who are at risk for the condition so that vision loss can be prevented. Patients with poor lutein intake are at a higher risk of developing AMD, and lutein supplements can help these patients retain macular function. Additionally, high-dose lutein and zeaxanthin have been suggested to slow down the development of dry macular degeneration.
Medications including Lucentis, Eylea, Beovu, and Avastin can all be used in the treatment of wet macular degeneration. These drugs are the most effective when used soon after developing wet macular degeneration (ideally within one to two weeks).
To schedule an eye exam or learn more about available treatments for AMD, schedule an appointment at The Eye Clinic of Florida today.