Age Related Macular Degeneration

What is are-related macular degeneration (AMD)?

AMD occurs when a layer under the retina is disrupted by deposits called drusen or other age-related changes. These changes may cause vision to deteriorate. When the macula breaks down, you lose your central vision, but it does not affect yourperipheral (side) vision. The most common form of AMD is dry MD, in which drusen causes aging and thinning to the macula. With dry MD, vision loss is usually gradual. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels develop under the retina. These vessels leak blood and fluid and blur central vision. With wet AMD, vision loss can be rapid and severe.

What are the symptoms of AMD? 

Early AMD may be hardly noticable, and may only occur in one eye. Words on a page may look blurred and iat may be difficult to recognize people's faces. A dark or empty area may appear in the center of vision. Straight lines amy look distorted.

How is AMD diagnosed?

Diagnostic tools include ophthalmoscope examination, fluorescein angiogram and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

How is AMD treated?

There is no treatment for dry AMD, though specific nutritional supplements may help slow its progression and impact. For wet AMD, treatment options include thermal laser therapy, photodynamic therepy and anti-VEGF treatment.

What happens if I lose vision due to AMD?

With low-vision rehabilitation, devices and services, people can learn to "see" again, regain confidence and live independently with their remaining vision.