3 Things You Need to Know About Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that impacts central vision in older adults. While AMD doesn't usually cause complete blindness, it can make it difficult to see faces, read, drive, or perform other close-up tasks. If you’re at risk for developing AMD, it’s important to learn about the condition and how you can take steps to protect your vision.
1. There are two types of AMD
The two types of AMD are dry and wet, with the dry type being the most common and less severe. Dry AMD progresses gradually without pain, and common symptoms include blurry vision, difficulty recognizing faces, and reduced central vision in one or both eyes. Dry AMD can progress to wet AMD, which occurs when new blood vessels develop and leak fluid under the retina. Wet AMD is more likely than dry AMD to cause a sudden change in vision, potentially resulting in significant vision loss.
2. Disease progression and when to seek treatment
Dry AMD happens in three stages: early, intermediate, and late, typically over several years. Any stage of dry AMD can turn into wet AMD, which is always late stage. The sooner you receive treatment for AMD, the better your vision outcomes will be. In its earliest stages, you may not notice any significant symptoms. Therefore, if you’re at risk for AMD, it’s important to receive a comprehensive eye exam with dilation at least once a year.
3. Certain lifestyle and genetic factors increase risk
Common risk factors for AMD include:
- Age: Aging can cause damage to the macula, the part of the eye that controls sharp, straight-ahead vision. AMD is the leading cause of severe vision loss in individuals aged 50 and older.
- Diet: A poor diet high in saturated fats can contribute to various health problems, including AMD. Proper nutrition can help lower the risk of developing AMD or prevent further vision loss in individuals already affected by the condition.
- Smoking: People who smoke are twice as likely to develop AMD compared to those who don’t.
Having a family history of AMD increases your risk, particularly if it runs in your immediate family, like a parent or sibling.
Schedule an Appointment with a Retina Specialist Today
AMD can impact different patients differently, and early detection is crucial to preserving vision. Seeing a retina specialist regularly ensures a fast diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. If you want to learn more about AMD, The Retina Eye Center is the practice of choice in the Central Savannah River Area, serving patients in Aiken, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
MD: AMD impacts central vision in older adults. Learn more about the condition, what the risk factors are, and how you can take steps to protect your vision here.