Macular Degeneration (Age-Related Macular Degeneration - AMD)
What is macular degeneration (AMD)?
Macular degeneration is a condition where the macula, the part of the retina responsible for detecting light, loses its ability to function properly. This affects your vision, especially during tasks that require detailed vision, like reading and writing. It commonly develops as you get older and is most common in people over 60.
Symptoms
Macular degeneration usually develops with age and often affects both eyes, although the impact can vary between each eye. In the early stages, it may not be noticeable, but the symptoms can differ depending on the type of macular degeneration you have.
- Dry AMD
Dry AMD is the most common form of macular degeneration. It occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula gradually deteriorate, often referred to as retinal wear and tear.
It can affect your ability to see clearly in detail during activities like reading, using a computer, watching TV, driving, and other daily tasks. In the early stages of dry AMD, you may experience little to no symptoms. However, as it progresses, blind spots may start to develop in your central vision.
- Wet AMD
Wet AMD causes a sudden decline in central vision, usually in one eye at a time. It typically develops in people who already have dry AMD. It is caused by the growth of blood vessels beneath the macula, which can leak or form scars. If you experience unusual symptoms, like straight lines appearing wavy or blurry vision, it’s important to contact your eye doctor or general practitioner as soon as possible.
Common Causes
The exact cause of macular degeneration is not known, but it tends to develop with age. Over time, the membrane, pigment cells, and light-sensitive cells in the retina break down, affecting your vision.
In some cases of macular degeneration, genetics play a role. Since it can be hereditary, it’s especially important to be aware of the symptoms of macular degeneration and have regular eye exams with an eye health check-up if the condition runs in your family.
Smoking is another risk factor for macular degeneration. Studies show that people who smoke 15 or more cigarettes a day are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop macular degeneration than non-smokers.
Treatment
Currently, there is no cure for dry AMD. However, there are treatments available for wet AMD that can prevent further vision loss if the condition is detected early.
Next Steps
We want to help you maintain clear vision. If the optician notices symptoms during your eye exam that could indicate macular degeneration, they will recommend an eye health check-up. You can also ask for an eye health check-up right away if you’re concerned.
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