Posted by: Eye Health Northwest in Macular Degeneration on February 10, 2025
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness among older Americans. To raise awareness about this common eye condition and remind people that early detection is critical to preventing serious vision impairment, the AAO has designated February as Age-Related Macular Degeneration Month.
Keep reading to learn more about age-related macular degeneration, what symptoms to look for, who might be at higher risk for developing the condition and treatment options.
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration is an eye condition caused by damage to the macula, which is the small area at the back of the retina responsible for central vision. There are two types of AMD: dry macular degeneration and wet macular degeneration.
Dry Macular Degeneration
Dry macular degeneration is the most common type. It is caused by the accumulation of tiny yellow deposits of protein called drusen under the retina, which leads to the gradual thinning and atrophy of macular cells.
Dry AMD accounts for approximately 90% of all cases of the condition. It usually progresses slowly, taking years to develop to the point that it affects vision.
Wet Macular Degeneration
Wet macular degeneration is less common but more severe. It is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula, which leak fluid and blood, critically damaging it.
It is responsible for most cases of significant vision loss among people diagnosed with AMD.
What are the Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
The symptoms of AMD include dark or empty spots in central vision, blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, poor near vision, night blindness, and changes in color perception. Unless diagnosed early at a routine eye exam, many people are unaware they have the condition until they start to experience some of its symptoms.
Who is at Risk for Developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
While anyone can develop AMD, factors that increase the risk of developing the condition include:
Age
Adults over the age of 75 are three times more likely to develop AMD.
Genetics
People with a family history of AMD typically have a higher chance of developing the condition.
Smoking
People who smoke or who have smoked in the past are at a much higher risk for AMD.
Underlying Health Conditions
Underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes, all increase the risk of developing AMD.
Gender
Women are more likely to develop AMD than men.
According to the AAO, other possible risk factors include light irises, poor diet, obesity, and high degrees of farsightedness.
What Treatments Are Available for Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
There is no cure for AMD, so treatments focus on preserving existing vision and preventing further vision impairment. Luckily, advances in AMD treatments have made the condition more manageable than ever.
Common treatments for AMD include:
- High-dose antioxidant nutritional supplements
- Oral and injectable medications that slow macular damage
- Laser therapy to prevent abnormal blood vessels from leaking
- Photodynamic therapy to break down abnormal blood vessels
- Telescopic lens implantation to improve vision changes that have already occurred
Protect Yourself from Vision Loss This Age-Related Macular Degeneration Month
Age-related macular degeneration is a serious condition that can lead to blindness if not diagnosed and treated early. Regular eye exams, especially for older adults, are the best way to prevent vision loss from age-related macular degeneration.
Through early detection, you can begin treatment sooner and preserve as much of your vision as possible.
Do you want to learn more about preventing vision loss from age-related macular degeneration? Schedule an appointment at EyeHealth Northwest in Portland, OR, today!
