Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease and a leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over age 50. The global prevalence of AMD in people aged 45 and older is 8.7%, which stands at over 196 million cases worldwide. That number is projected to climb to 288 million by 2040.
There are two forms of age-related macular degeneration: Dry AMD and Wet AMD.
Dry AMD is a milder form of the disease yet occurs more frequently than wet AMD, making up about 80% of AMD cases. It occurs when a yellow substance called drusen forms under the retina and disrupts the health of the macular nerve cells. This results in gradual but permanent macular deterioration and vision loss.
Wet AMD comprises about 20 percent of all AMD cases and is more severe than the dry type. Wet AMD occurs when new blood vessels develop underneath the retina and leak fluid, causing distorted vision and vision loss. Vision loss occurs much faster with wet AMD, resulting in permanent scarring inside the eye and severe vision loss.
Unfortunately, there aren’t yet any known cures for either version of AMD, but there are a few treatments that may help slow vision loss. Moreover, your low vision optometrist can provide you with low vision aids and devices to help you continue to live a full, independent life.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, contact Greenwich Ophthalmology Associates in Stamford to discover how we can help you preserve your sight.
What are the Symptoms of AMD?
Symptoms of AMD include:
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty recognizing faces
- Difficulty or inability to adjust to dim light
- Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
- Requiring bright light to perform daily tasks
- A dark spot in the center of your visual field (wet AMD)
The onset of symptoms may be subtle and can easily go unnoticed. That’s why regular comprehensive eye exams are so crucial. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment, the better the outcome.
Who’s at Risk of Developing AMD?
Over 50: The onset of AMD usually occurs over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking and eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.
Obesity: Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.
Family History: If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.
How is AMD Treated?
Wet AMD Treatment
Certain treatments for wet AMD can prevent vision loss from worsening, and can at times even clear up any blurred vision caused by a retinal bleed or leaking fluid.
Anti-VEGF medications are an effective and popular method of treating wet AMD. Anti-VEGF drugs are injected directly into the eye— which is a quick and painless procedure. These medications work by absorbing any fluid or blood to restore the retina to its original shape, often resulting in a dramatic vision improvement.
Another type of treatment for wet AMD is photodynamic therapy (PDT). This therapeutic procedure uses photosensitive intravenous drugs in combination with a low-power, long-duration infrared laser. It is used to shrink or seal the new abnormal and fragile blood vessels in the retina.
Dry AMD Treatment
While there are currently no approved medical treatments for dry AMD, several clinical trials are underway. However, lifestyle habits may play a role in its progression. A person with dry AMD should have their eyes closely monitored by an ophthalmologist to track any changes.
Taking an AREDS supplement may also help slow the progression of dry AMD due to its unique combination of high-dose vitamins and minerals.
In addition to tracking AMD progression, your eye doctor may suggest certain lifestyle modifications to ensure the best possible outcome. Not smoking, consuming healthy food and exercising regularly could lower your risks of developing or worsening your dry AMD.
Macular Degeneration Treatment in Stamford
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with AMD or are at risk of developing it, we can help.
The medical staff at Greenwich Ophthalmology Associates offer patients personalized care using state-of-the-art medical equipment to achieve the best possible results.
To schedule your consultation with our eye care team, call Greenwich Ophthalmology Associates in Stamford today.