Macular degeneration
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss among people age 50 and older. It causes damage to the macula, the small area in the center of the retina that allows us to clearly read, see faces, and visualize objects that are straight ahead.
What are the types of AMD?
Dry AMD
There is a breakdown or thinning of the layer of retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) in the macula. Dry AMD reduces the central vision and can effect color perception.
Wet AMD
New blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak blood and fluid. This leakage causes permanent damage to light-sensitive retinal cells, which create blind spots in central vision. Generally, the damage caused by the "dry" form is not as severe or rapid as that of the "wet" form.
What are some symptoms of AMD?
Fuzzy or distorted central vision
Who is at risk for AMD?
Age is a major risk factor for AMD. Other risk factors for AMD include smoking, race, and your family history.
How can you treat AMD?
Dry AMD can be treated with AREDS vitamins and good nutritional health. Wet AMD can be treated with injections of drugs into the eye that will block the growth of new abnormal blood vessels.
How can you prevent AMD?
Researchers have found links between AMD and some lifestyle choices. You might be able to reduce your risk of AMD or slow its progression by: