Macular disease, particularly age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults. As a progressive condition, AMD affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for sharp central vision. There are two main types of AMD: wet and dry.
Below, our Glendale eye care team at Pearson Eyecare Arrowhead discusses the symptoms and treatments, and the importance of regular eye exams for catching this disease early and preventing further damage to your vision.
How Do I Know If I Have Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
The early stages of AMD may not show obvious symptoms, making it difficult to detect without a comprehensive eye exam. However, as the disease progresses, there are a few common signs you can watch for. The most common symptom is blurred or distorted central vision, which may affect your ability to read, drive, or recognize faces. Another symptom is the appearance of dark or empty spots in your central vision. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Regular eye exams are crucial to diagnose AMD early, especially if you are at higher risk due to age, family history, or other health conditions.
Types of Macular Degeneration: Wet vs. Dry
AMD is divided into two main types: wet and dry macular degeneration. Dry AMD is the more common form, accounting for about 90% of cases. It occurs when the macula thins over time, leading to gradual vision loss. Wet AMD, although less common, is much more aggressive and can lead to rapid vision loss. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid, causing scarring and damage to the macula.
Both types of macular degeneration can severely impact your quality of life, but wet AMD is typically more difficult to treat, requiring timely intervention to prevent irreversible vision loss.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
The symptoms of AMD can vary depending on the stage of the disease. In the early stages of dry AMD, you may not notice any symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, however, you may experience:
- Blurry or wavy central vision
- Difficulty reading or seeing details
- The presence of a dark or empty spot in the center of your vision
- Decreased ability to see well in low light conditions
With wet AMD, the symptoms tend to worsen more quickly and may include:
- Rapid vision loss
- Severe distortion of straight lines, like looking at a grid where lines appear bent or curved
- Dark spots in the central vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.
How Can I Avoid AMD?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent AMD, several lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of developing the condition or slow its progression. Here are a few tips for maintaining eye health:
- Get regular eye exams: An eye care professional can detect signs of AMD early, even before symptoms appear.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins C and E can support eye health. Leafy green vegetables, fish, and nuts are all great choices.
- Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of AMD, so quitting can significantly reduce your chances of developing the condition.
- Protect your eyes from UV rays: Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays that can contribute to macular degeneration.
- Exercise regularly: Maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure can help reduce the risk of AMD.
Treatments for Macular Disease
While there is no cure for AMD, several treatments can help manage the condition, especially if detected early. For dry AMD, there are no specific medical treatments, but certain nutritional supplements may help slow its progression. The AREDS2 formula, which contains vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, and lutein, has been shown to reduce the risk of severe vision loss in people with intermediate to advanced dry AMD.
For wet AMD, more aggressive treatments are available, including:
- Anti-VEGF injections: These medications can block the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce fluid leakage under the retina.
- Laser therapy: This treatment aims to seal leaking blood vessels in the retina to prevent further damage.
- Photodynamic therapy: A combination of light and a photosensitive drug is used to treat abnormal blood vessels.
Regular eye exams are key to monitoring the condition and adjusting treatment as necessary.
Macular degeneration is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss, but early detection and proper treatment can help manage it effectively. Regular eye exams, a healthy lifestyle, and timely medical intervention are crucial in preventing or slowing the progression of both dry and wet AMD. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about what we can do to help keep your vision clear and your eyes healthy for years to come.
