Age Related Macular Degen.

What is Age Related Macular Degeneration? (AMD)

Age Related Macular Degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people above the age of 60 and involves the breakdown of the eye’s macula. The macula is small area in the retina which is responsible for central vision, allowing you to see fine details clearly.

  • 90% of patients have the dry form of AMD, where the degeneration of the macula is a gradual process.
  • 10% have the wet form of AMD, in which weakened blood vessels result in sudden blood leakage.

Causes of AMD

  • Age
  • Family history of AMD
  • Tobacco use
  • High blood pressure
  • Abnormal cholesterol levels

Symptoms of AMD

In its primary stages, patients may not be aware that they have macular degeneration until it is detected during an eye-exam. That is why patients who are at a risk for macular degeneration should have regular vision tests and if diagnosed, begin appropriate treatment immediately.

Some of the symptoms of AMD include:

  • Blurry distance and/or reading vision
  • Dark or blank spots in your vision
  • Loss of central vision
  • Distortion of straight lines
  • Changed color perception

Treatment of AMD

While there is no cure for AMD, there are several treatment options available for the management of this eye condition which may prevent severe vision loss.

  • Dry form of AMD: This can be treated using vitamin supplements and certain lifestyle modifications including wearing sunglasses, increasing daily exercise and stopping smoking.
  • Wet form of AMD: Treatments for the wet form of AMD involve injections into the eye to stop the leakage from abnormal blood vessels. This treatment is very successful and needs to be repeated on follow-up visits.

Share This Post:

Related Posts

Contact Lenses vs. Glasses : Which One is Best?

Contact Lenses vs. Glasses : Which One is Best?

The eternal debate between contact lenses and glasses continues to perplex those seeking optimal visual clarity. The…

The eternal debate between contact lenses and glasses continues to perplex those seeking optimal visual clarity. The…

The Importance of Vision Screening for Children Aged 3 to 5 Years

The Importance of Vision Screening for Children Aged 3 to 5 Years

As parents, we want nothing more than to ensure the well-being of our children. Amidst the busy routines and exciting…

As parents, we want nothing more than to ensure the well-being of our children. Amidst the busy routines and exciting…

Optical Coherence Tomography: The Most Advanced Eye Exam for Children Explained

Optical Coherence Tomography: The Most Advanced Eye Exam for Children Explained

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a cutting-edge technology revolutionizing pediatric eye care. This non-invasive…

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a cutting-edge technology revolutionizing pediatric eye care. This non-invasive…

Contact Us

Questions? Comments? Call us today at (403) 280-7518 or fill out the form below:

Have Questions? Call Us Today At

Call Us

Book Appointment

TopAboutBlogContact
TopBlogAppointmentContact