Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Early Detection Is Key to Protection

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of severe loss of eyesight among people ages 50 and up. It directly impacts central vision and while total blindness is rare, it can happen.

AMD can begin developing in your mid-40s, but may not show any symptoms until your 60s. This is why it’s crucial to schedule and attend regular eye exams.

A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to detect AMD early and start treatment to slow its progression.

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Understanding AMD

AMD damages a part of the retina called the macula. This affects central vision and, with it, the ability to see fine details. The exact causes of AMD are still unknown, but it’s believed to be tied to genetic and environmental factors.

There are 2 types of AMD:

Dry AMD: 80% of people with AMD have the dry form of the disease. It’s characterized by gradual vision loss, usually affecting one eye at a time. Dry AMD occurs when light-sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down.
Wet AMD: Less common, but usually causes rapid vision loss. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow & leak behind the retina. This creates a large blind spot that typically happens without warning.

In the advanced stages of AMD, people can lose their ability to drive, see faces, and read smaller print.

Can AMD be Prevented?

While there currently is no cure for age-related macular degeneration, you can practice healthy habits now to help prevent, or slow the progression, of the disease. Some ways you can preserve your vision include:

Quit smoking
Know your family history
Eat a nutrient-rich diet
Take vitamin supplements
Wear sunglasses outside (with 100% UVA/UVB protection)
Monitor & maintain healthy blood pressure
Test your vision with an Amsler grid

The progression of wet AMD can be slowed with the use of anti-VEGF injections and photodynamic therapies with prompt treatment.

Practicing healthy habits is a great way to preserve your vision. It’s also important to understand the symptoms of AMD and risk factors associated with the disease so you can get an early diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of age-related macular degeneration include:

Blurry or fuzzy vision
Difficulty recognizing familiar faces
Straight lines appearing wavy
Dark, empty areas or blind spots in the centre of vision

The presence of drusen, which are yellow deposits in the retina, is one of the most common early signs of AMD. These can be visible to your doctor during an eye exam.

Risk Factors

There are several risk factors that can contribute to developing AMD, mainly:

Aging
Eating high saturated fats
Smoking
Hypertension

Being aware of any risk factors can help you gain control over your vision and ocular health before permanent damage occurs.

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Book Your Next Eye Exam

If you fall under any of the aforementioned risk factors, or experience any symptoms related to AMD, contact us as soon as possible to schedule an eye exam.

We’re here to help protect your ocular health.

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