AMD

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Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a medical condition that primarily affects the macula, which is the part of the eye responsible for sharp, central vision required for activities like reading and driving. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss among people age 50 and older. It occurs when the small central portion of the retina, known as the macula, deteriorates. The condition is often referred to in two forms: dry (atrophic) and wet (neovascular or exudative).

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of AMD is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Risk factors for developing AMD include age, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and having a family history of the condition. Long-term exposure to sunlight and a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables are also considered risk factors.

Symptoms

Early AMD often does not have symptoms. As the condition progresses, a person may notice:

• Blurred or fuzzy vision
• A dark or empty area appearing in the center of vision
• Distortion of straight lines, which may appear wavy

Types of AMD

Dry AMD

Dry AMD is the most common type and is characterized by the presence of yellow deposits, known as drusen, in the macula. A few small drusen may not cause changes in vision; however, as they grow in size and increase in number, they may lead to a dimming or distortion of vision that people find most noticeable when they read. In advanced stages, dry AMD can lead to significant vision loss.

Wet AMD

Wet AMD is less common but more severe. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak blood and fluid. This leakage can lead to damage of the macula, resulting in rapid and severe vision loss.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of AMD can be made through a comprehensive eye examination that includes:

• Visual acuity test
• Dilated eye exam
• Amsler grid test
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
• Fluorescein angiography (in certain cases)

Treatment

While there is no cure for AMD, there are treatments that can slow its progression or improve vision. Treatment options depend on the stage and type of the disease. For dry AMD, nutritional supplements containing a specific combination of vitamins and minerals (AREDS formula) may slow progression. For wet AMD, treatment options include anti-VEGF injection therapy, laser therapy, and photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Prevention

Preventive measures for AMD include adopting a healthy lifestyle by quitting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and eating a diet rich in green, leafy vegetables and fish.

See Also

• Blindness
• Visual Acuity
• Retina
• Eye Examination