Macular Degeneration
What is age- related macular degeneration (AMD)?
It is a disease associated with aging that destroys sharp, central vision.
Demographics:
It is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in Americans in people ages 65 and older, affecting more Americans than cataracts and glaucoma combined.
It is estimated that 10 million Americans are affected by the disease and 1.75 million U.S. residents now have significant symptoms associated with age-related macular degeneration, with that number expected to grow to almost to 3 million by 2020.
AMD occurs in two forms: wet and dry.
Dry AMD, more common (90% of cases), occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down, gradually blurring central vision in the affected eye.
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula. These new blood vessels tend to be very fragile and often leak blood and fluid. The blood and fluid raise the macula from its normal place at the back of the eye. Damage occurs rapidly (90% of cases of vision loss associated with macular degeneration).
What are the risk factors for AMD?
1) Age. People over age 60 are at greater risk.
2) Smoking.
3) Obesity.
4) Race. Caucasians are much more likely to lose vision from AMD
5) Family history.
6) Gender. Women appear to be at greater risk than men.
What are the symptoms?
1) Blurred vision.
2) Blind spot in the middle of the field of vision.
3) Straight lines may appear crooked.
How is AMD treated?
1) Avoid Smoking.
2) Taking a specific high-dose formulation of antioxidants and zinc reduces the risk of advanced AMD.
Wet AMD can be treated with one of the following ways:
1) Laser surgery - uses a laser to destroy the fragile, leaky blood vessels.
2) Photodynamic therapy – using a drug called verteporfin that is injected into your arm.
3) Injections - of newer drugs (anti-VEGF) into the eye.
How can I take care of my vision now that I have AMD?
1) You should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.
2) Use an Amsler grid every day to evaluate your vision. Check each eye separately. If you detect any changes in the appearance of this grid get a comprehensive dilated eye exam.
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