Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the gradual deterioration of the retina affecting sharp, central vision.
Facts:
- AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older
- Approximately 9.1 million people in the US older than 40 suffer from AMD
- More than 85 percent of all people with intermediate and advanced AMD combined have the dry form.
- Women are more likely to develop the condition over men
- Can be hereditary
Causes:
Age is the most common cause of AMD, however smoking, obesity, race, family history, and gender can all play a role.Symptoms:
AMD causes no pain so sometimes it is difficult to know in advance of the disease. In some cases, AMD advances so slowly that people notice little change in their vision. In others, the disease progresses faster and may lead to a loss of vision in both eyes.Types:
- Wet Degeneration (Advanced AMD) occurs when abnormal blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula and begin to leak blood and fluid. An early symptom of wet AMD is that straight lines appear wavy.
- Dry Degeneration occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula deteriorate causing blurred central vision. An early symptom of dry AMD is blurred vision and trouble recognizing faces.
Diagnosis:
Major factors in determining if a patient has AMD:- Eye drops to dilate
- Visual acuity testing
- Sensitive central vision (Macular) testing with visual field equipment
- Digital imaging of the Maculae
- Home monitoring of central vision by Amsler Grid test to determine if your vision ever gets blurred or wavy
- Genetic risk determination and counseling
Treatment:
There are no found treatments or cures for Dry AMD, however we provide certain nutritional supplements that help prevent or slow down macular degeneration.
Wet AMD treatments that help prevent or treat vision loss:
- Laser Treatment
- Photodynamic Therapy
- Eye Injections