What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
The retina is a light sensitive layer that lines the inner surface of the back of the eye and acts like a camera film to capture light. The light that reaches the retina forms an image which is sent to, and interpreted by, our brain – this is how we see. The most image-sensitive area of the retina is concentrated in a small central zone, called the macula.
The macula is highly sensitive and discerns details and colours in the central field of vision. When the macula is damaged by age-related wear and tear, it is known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Patients experience reduced central vision in the form of a grey zone or blank spot, leaving peripheral vision unaffected. Macular degeneration usually affects both eyes; however, onset and progression of symptoms can occur at different rates in each eye. This is why it is important to monitor each eye separately.
Types of AMD
As the name suggests, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common condition for people over the age of 50 years old. There are two types of AMD: dry and wet.
Dry AMD
Dry AMD develops slowly, usually over some years. As cells in the macula die in small patches, images can fade or become out of focus, and small pieces of images disappear. There is no treatment currently available for this type of AMD; however, it is important to note that dry AMD can become wet. Therefore, it is important to continue regular monitoring of your eye health by your clinician.
Wet AMD
Wet AMD is caused by abnormal blood vessels growing into the retina, which can leak fluid or bleed into the layers of retina. This can result in scar tissue forming in and around the macula, causing rapid and severe loss of central vision.
Treatment is available for wet AMD, most commonly with a class of drugs known as anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor). These drugs are injected directly into the eye to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels. They work to stop or slow loss of vision but do not completely cure wet AMD; rather, they work to preserve your best vision for as long as possible. This will often require ongoing treatment, in most cases for an indefinite period of time.
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Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms
Many people do not realise they are suffering from macular degeneration until the symptoms become very obvious. Early detection and treatment can have a more favourable outcome. Regular self monitoring at home with the use of an Amsler Grid can detect early changes. Early signs of AMD may include:
- Difficulty in activity which require fine vision – such as driving, reading, and knitting
- Central distortion – where straight lines appear wavy or bent, or central blurry patch
- Difficulty distinguishing facial features
Additionally, the need for increased illumination, sensitivity to glare, decreased night vision and poor colour sensitivity may also indicate the presence of disease.
Your Journey
At Queensland Eye & Retina Specialists, we recommend that you make an appointment as soon as you notice any changes in your vision. Our clinician can provide a full eye examination using the latest equipment. Our specialist will then discuss an individualised treatment plan for your best visual outcome.
As with all treatment, there are some risks involved which will be discussed with you at your consultation.
More Information
For more information on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), head to one of the links below
