Eye Conditions

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Signs, Risk Factors, and Treatment

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the central part of the retina, called the macula. The macula is responsible for sharp, detailed vision and allows us to see colors and fine details. As we age, our risk of developing AMD increases.
While there is no cure for this condition, it can be treated when caught early to help preserve your vision.

Types of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD is the most common form, accounting for about 90% of cases. It occurs when the macula thins over time due to aging and accumulating drusen, small yellow deposits under the retina.

Wet AMD, on the other hand, is less common but more severe. It involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, which can leak fluids and cause scarring and vision loss.

Signs of AMD

The early stages of AMD may not have any noticeable signs or symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are important for early detection. However, as the disease progresses, some possible signs may include:

• Blurred vision
• Difficulty seeing in low-light conditions
• Distorted or wavy lines when looking at straight objects
• Decreased color perception
• Blind spots in the central vision

Risk Factors for AMD

While aging is a primary risk factor for AMD, there are other factors that may increase your chances of developing the disease. These include:

• Family history: If you have a family member with AMD, your risk is higher.
• Smoking: Smokers are at a significantly higher risk of developing AMD compared to non-smokers.
• Eye color:  People with lighter eye colors, such as blue or green, have a higher risk of AMD, which may be due to the lack of UV protection lighter colored eyes have.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop AMD than men. This may be because women have a longer lifespan, providing more time for them to develop the condition.
• Race and ethnicity: Caucasians are more likely to develop AMD than other races.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing AMD.
• Diet: A diet high in saturated fats and low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of AMD.
• Low activity: For dry AMD, the retina is not receiving enough oxygen.

  With exercise, you have improved cardiovascular health and could potentially prevent AMD from developing.

While AMD mainly affects individuals over 50, it is important to note that certain lifestyle factors and medical conditions can also increase the risk of developing the disease at a younger age. These include high blood pressure, heart disease, and exposure to UV light. It’s essential to lead a healthy lifestyle and manage any underlying health conditions to protect your vision from AMD.

Tips for Preventing Age-related Macular Degeneration

Although there is currently no cure for AMD, there are steps you can take to lower your risk or slow the progression of the disease:

• Get regular eye exams: Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing severe vision loss.
• Quit smoking: If you smoke, it’s essential to quit as soon as possible to reduce your risk of developing AMD.
• Eat a healthy diet: Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your diet, as well as foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish.
• Exercise regularly: Maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active can help reduce the risk of AMD.
• Protect your eyes from UV light: Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection when outdoors to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
• Manage other health conditions: Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check to reduce the risk of developing AMD.

Treatment for AMD

Unfortunately, there is no cure for AMD. However, treatment options are available to help slow down the progression of the disease and preserve vision. These may include:

• Anti-VEGF injections: These injections help prevent the formation of new blood vessels that can cause vision loss in AMD.
• Laser therapy: This treatment is used to seal off leaking blood vessels and slow down the progression of AMD.
• Dietary supplements: Certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins C, E, zinc, and copper, have been shown to reduce the risk of developing advanced AMD.
• Low vision aids: These include magnifying glasses, telescopic lenses, and other devices that can help improve vision for those with AMD.

  If you are at risk or have been diagnosed with AMD, it’s essential to work closely with your eye doctor and follow their recommended treatment plan for the best chance of preserving your vision. By staying informed about the signs, risk factors, and treatment options for AMD, you can take proactive steps to protect your eyesight as you age.

What Can Happen if AMD Goes Untreated?

If AMD is left untreated, it can lead to irreversible vision loss. In severe cases of wet AMD, central vision may be completely lost within a few months. This can significantly impact daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

It’s important to regularly visit an eye care professional for comprehensive eye exams, especially if you are over the age of 50 or have any risk factors for AMD. Early detection and treatment can help prevent vision loss and maintain a high quality of life.

Schedule Your Eye Exam for AMD Today!

If you experience any changes in your vision or have any risk factors for AMD, it is important to schedule regular eye exams with your eye care professional. Early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of AMD and preserve your vision.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including not smoking and eating a balanced diet, can also play a role in reducing your risk of developing AMD. Speak with Dittman Eyecare for more information on how to protect your eyes from age-related macular degeneration or to schedule an eye exam today!