Macular Degeneration: What Patients Need to Know

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common but serious medical condition that affects a person’s vision. Someone experiencing AMD will not be able to see fine details regardless of distance, but their peripheral vision will still be functional. Modern treatments can prevent the most serious effects of some types of AMD. By searching online, patients can learn more about their options and find qualified local physicians who can help.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50. However, it does not affect all patients the same way.

There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Dry AMD is the most common and occurs when the macula ages (the macula is part of the retina located at the back of the eye). The macula becomes thinner, and small protein deposits grow. Those deposits eventually interfere with a person’s vision.

Wet AMD is less common, but can occur after dry AMD is left untreated. It occurs when new, abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina. These abnormal vessels can leak blood or fluids, which then scar the macula. A qualified ophthalmologist can identify either type of AMD and make a treatment plan.

Signs and Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

No one knows what causes both forms of macular degeneration. The main symptom of both dry and wet AMD is loss of vision, but the rate and severity of this loss differs depending on which version of the disease. Dry and wet AMD symptoms include:

• Reduced central vision
• Difficulty seeing faces
• Difficulty adjusting to light changes
• Blurred words or lower-intensity colors
• Visual distortions
• A specific blurred spot in the middle of your vision

Though symptoms are mostly the same, those with wet AMD will lose their sight more quickly than those with dry AMD. People at risk of developing macular degeneration should regularly schedule check-ups with an ophthalmologist.

The most common risk factor for someone developing AMD is age. However, other lifestyle characteristics can also increase a person’s risk. Smoking may increase the chances of developing AMD, and the disease is more common for people who have light-colored eyes, a family history of AMD, or other conditions such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Being overweight or obese may also increase the risk.

Laser Surgery for AMD and Other Treatment Options

Unfortunately, there is no cure for AMD. Recent research suggests several possible treatments, but most doctors prescribe vitamins and other therapeutic options to slow the progression of the disease.

Treatment options are also available for people with wet AMD. Physicians may prescribe anti-VEGF medications, which reduce the amount of abnormal blood vessels in the eyes. Recommended treatments vary depending on how the disease has progressed, and regular eye exams play an important role in AMD early diagnosis and prevention.

Laser photocoagulation is a relatively new treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration. This is a type of laser surgery that targets small areas of the macula. When successful, it can seal off blood vessels, preventing further vision loss. While laser surgery doesn’t always restore vision, it can prevent worsening central vision in many cases. Patients should research carefully to find affordable options for laser photocoagulation - that’s also true for other types of AMD treatment.

Additional measures that may reduce the risk of developing wet or dry AMD.

• Don’t smoke.
• Manage obesity and other health issues.
• Exercise regularly.
• Include fish or a fish oil supplement in your diet.
• Wear sunglasses to prevent UV damage.

All patients should speak with their doctors before trying supplements or non-medical treatments for AMD. This is particularly important for people who take prescription medications, since some supplements may have side effects or interfere with medicine.

People with symptoms of macular degeneration can use online resources to learn about their options. By researching ophthalmologists and treatments, people can make knowledgeable decisions. However, it’s important to research carefully - by looking for multiple sources, people can evaluate factual claims more accurately.

Researching Macular Degeneration Online: What to Know

As discussed above, macular degeneration requires treatment. By searching online, people who are experiencing vision issues can find local ophthalmologists and schedule examinations. The internet also offers resources for learning about treatments - though all patients should discuss these options with their physicians.

When searching online, people should review several different resources. For instance, patients looking for a diagnosis will want to consider 3-4 local eye doctors, comparing their specializations, capabilities, and fee structures (where appropriate). Patients considering surgeries will want to spend more time evaluating every available option before making a decision.

The resources on this page can be helpful for understanding AMD - and finding ways to prevent the condition from progressing. Careful research can help people find local physicians and get peace of mind.