Understanding AMD
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common progressive eye disease and is the leading causes of vision loss. The macula is the central portion of the retina (a light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that converts sight into signal which the brain interprets as images) dedicated to fine, detailed visual tasks such as reading, recognizing faces, watching television and driving. As we get older it can begin to break down, causing blurred vision.
There are two stages of AMD: an early stage and a late stage.
Dry AMD is the early stage of the disease.
Wet AMD is the late form of AMD, and it can lead to sudden loss in vision. Abnormal blood vessels begin to grow in the back of the eye to try to repair damage to the macula that occurred in the early stage of the disease. These blood vessels are very fragile and can leak fluid and blood into the retina causing further damage to the macula and leading to vision loss.
What are the Causes of AMD?
Although the cause of AMD is not fully understood, there are a number of risk factors that have been identified:
Controllable Factors
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Smoking
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Diet
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Being Overweight
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High Blood Pressure
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Sun Exposure
Uncontrollable Factors
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Age
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Genetics
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Family History
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Gender (women>men)
What are the Symptoms of AMD?
AMD is a progressive disease and the symptoms tend to develop slowly and gradually get worse over time. The signs and symptoms can include:
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Blurred vision
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Blind spots in central vision
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Straight lines appearing as wavy or distorted
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Straight lines or edges of objects appearing to be crooked
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Loss of colour perception
How can we help
Every patient is unique. When you have a consultation with one of our retinal specialists at Medical Eye Consultants they will use the most advanced diagnostic tools such as OCT and angiography of the retina, to ensure they can detect the earliest changes and then discuss the best possible treatment options for you.
Wet AMD treatments
Anti-VEGF Injection (Lucentis, Eylea, Avastin): helps to slow down vision loss and, in some cases, may improve sight.
Dry AMD treatments
There are currently no specific treatments to reverse the damage of dry AMD. Preventative measures include:
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Have your blood pressure checked regularly and treated if necessary
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Stop smoking
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Wear good quality sunglasses
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Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet
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Eat fresh fruit, dark leafy green vegetables, fish and nuts can help reduce the severity of AMD
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Use dietary supplements recommended by you ophthalmologist
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Exercise regularly