Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition and could lead to vision impairment, if not treated promptly. It affects the central vision and obstructs individuals from performing tasks such as reading or driving. This condition is one of the most prominent reasons for vision loss in the United Kingdom.
This blog serves the purpose of imparting vital information on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) vision loss. We will explore various details such as types, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for AMD.
A] What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is an age-related retinal condition that causes central vision loss. It affects the central parts of the retina, called the macula. The macula aids in providing straight and sharp vision. A person with macular degeneration faces difficulty seeing objects in front of them. It also poses difficulty in performing day-to-day tasks such as reading, driving and fixing things. It could lead to severe vision loss, if not treated promptly.
B] Types Of Macular Degeneration
1. Dry Macular Degeneration
Dry macular degeneration, also known as atrophic AMD, occurs when the macula gets thinner with age. When a yellow protein, drusen, is deposited under the macula, it turns the macula dry and thin. A patient suffering from Dry AMD may lose their vision gradually.
Dry macular degeneration has three stages: early, intermediate and late. In the early stage, the patient’s macula gets affected but doesn’t hamper the vision. In the intermediate stage, vision starts to get blurry and wavy. In the advanced or late stage, a person may lose their central vision completely. Since there is no treatment for dry AMD, patients can opt for vision aids and photodynamic therapy to minimise the effects.
2. Wet Macular Degeneration
Wet macular degeneration, also known as advanced neovascular AMD, is a late-stage AMD that causes faster vision loss. It occurs due to new or abnormal blood vessel formation under the retina and leaking blood or fluid from it. Leaking fluid forms bulges in the macula and disturbs central vision. The bleeding vessels form scars and cause permanent vision loss.
Wet AMD can cause a dark or blurry spot to appear in the centre of vision. It is a rare eye disease and only 10% of people are affected with Wet AMD. However, wet macular degeneration eye condition can be treated by opting for anti-VEGF therapy, a drug therapy that blocks the vascular endothelial growth factor.
C] Wet Vs Dry Macular Degeneration: Knowing The Differences
Macular degeneration is an age-related eye disease and a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Since it has two types, they offer subtle differences and understanding these differences aids in diagnosis and treatment.
Wet Macular Degeneration | Dry Macular Degeneration |
Wet macular degeneration, also known as exudative or neovascular macular degeneration, is less common but more severe. | Dry macular degeneration, also known as atrophic or non-exudative macular degeneration, is more common than Wet AMD. |
It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak blood and fluid. | It occurs when the macula, the central part of the retina, gradually thins over time due to aging. |
This leakage causes rapid damage to the macula. | This leads to the accumulation of drusen, small yellow deposits, under the retina. |
Symptoms include severe vision loss, dark spots in the central vision, and distorted vision (straight lines appear wavy). | Symptoms include blurred vision, difficulty recognising faces, and reading and a gradual loss of central vision. |
Wet macular eye degeneration can quickly lead to vision impairment, if not treated earlier | Progression is typically slow, and while it can significantly impact vision, complete blindness is rare. |
D] Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
AMD includes a variety of symptoms that indicate the progression of macular degeneration. It starts slowly and gradually increases its symptomatic intensity and later leads to vision impairment. However, symptoms can vary from person to person. These age-related macular degeneration symptoms include:
- Central vision loss either single or both eyes
- Blurry and wavy vision
- Difficulty in performing tasks such as reading, driving, etc.
- Distorted vision (a straight line may seem wavy)
- A formation of dark spots on the central vision
- Need of brighter light while indulging in attentive and intricate tasks
- Words may seem blurred
- Difficulty seeing in low light
- Colour vision changes
E] Diagnosis of AMD
As we know, symptoms rarely appear in the early stage of AMD. That’s why regular eye checkups are highly crucial. These are some common tests that are performed to diagnose eye macular degeneration.
1. Amsler Grid Test
Amsler grid test is one of the renowned tests for detecting AMD. It has a grid of straight lines and a dark dot spot between the grid. The doctor may ask you to identify the blurred, wavy or dark section by holding the Amsler grid 12-15 inches away from your eyes. Plenty of distortion may indicate the severity of AMD.
2. Dilated Eye Exam
The dilated eye exam is designed to dilate pupils by administering a special eye drop. Dilated pupils allow more light to come in and offer seamless examination. A dilated eye exam may involve several tests including an eye response test, eye muscle function test, visual acuity test, and visual field test.
3. Fluorescein Angiography
Fluorescein Angiography is performed by administering a yellow dye, called fluorescein into the patient’s vein and an eye drop to dilute pupils. A special camera follows the administered dye and takes pictures for further evaluation. It can detect various eye conditions such as macular oedema, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, eye vein blockage, macular pucker and ocular melanoma.
4. Optical Coherence Tomography
It is a non-invasive imaging test that utilises light waves to capture the retina’s cross-sectional pictures. An OCT machine takes three-dimensional and colour-coded images of the retina and optic nerves by throwing a laser light onto the retina. OCT can diagnose several eye conditions such as aged macular degeneration, macular holes, glaucoma, abnormal blood vessels, blood vessel blockage, diabetic retinopathy etc.
F] Treatment Options for AMD
Regular checkups and essential eye exams are the best options for treating and controlling AMD. While there is currently no cure for AMD, it can be managed and controlled, if detected earlier. Anti-VEGF therapy is an effective eye treatment which controls and manages the symptomatic effects of AMD. With anti-VEGF treatment, patients report that their visual condition is better or not declining. Lifestyle changes such as following a healthy diet and avoiding smoking can also help to keep his condition at bay.
Conclusion
AMD is a serious eye condition that can significantly impact vision. Regular eye exams are the best option for safeguarding yourself from AMD. It’s important to consult with an ophthalmologist for timely diagnosis and treatment, as early intervention can significantly slow the progression of AMD.
Paragon Clinic is a leading and renowned macular degeneration treatment centre that offers effective diagnosis and treatment to AMD patients with state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified doctors. Book your consultation now and save your eyes from macular degeneration and vision loss.
FAQs
Dry AMD is the most common age-related macular degeneration. Around 80% of the AMD patients are suffering from Dry AMD.
A patient suffering from AMD experiences blurry or spotted central vision. In addition, straight lines appear wavy to AMD patients.
The best way to prevent AMD is to indulge in regular eye exams. It aids in detecting the early stages which can be treated promptly.
Mr. Bal Manoj
With over 25+ years of experience in advancing eye care, Mr. Bal Manoj serves as director and co-founder of Paragon Clinic in Wolverhampton, Shrewsbury, and Stafford. His expertise in cataract surgery, glaucoma, and general ophthalmology, coupled with a track record of 10,000+ successful procedures, reflects his commitment to excellence. Connect with Mr. Bal Manoj today for expert eye care solutions.
About Mr. Bal Manoj
With over 25+ years of experience in advancing eye care, Mr. Bal Manoj serves as director and co-founder of Paragon Clinic in Wolverhampton, Shrewsbury, and Stafford. His expertise in cataract surgery, glaucoma, and general ophthalmology, coupled with a track record of 10,000+ successful procedures, reflects his commitment to excellence. Connect with Mr. Bal Manoj today for expert eye care solutions.