Understanding Age-Related Macular Degeneration

How AMD Works

There are two different forms of AMD. Although the types develop and function quite differently, the result without treatment is the same: an eventual loss of central vision.

Dry Form AMD

The dry form of AMD is much more common, making up about 85% of cases. In this version of the disease, deposits of fat called drusen start to collect around the macula (the part of the retina responsible for your central vision). The drusen block light from reaching the macula, and in extreme cases, can eventually cause the cells of the macula to die.

Wet Form AMD

Wet form AMD develops when irregular blood vessels start to grow in front of the retina. These blood vessels break, leaking fluid in front of the retina and potentially causing scarring of the macula. This blocks light from entering the macula, causing blind spots in the central vision. Wet AMD is uncommon, but very severe, accounting for the majority of vision loss associated with AMD.

Preventing AMD

There is no surefire way to avoid developing age-related macular degeneration. But with a few lifestyle changes, you can lower the risk of getting it. Here are a few tips to help prevent AMD.

• Eat a balanced diet
• Quit smoking
• Get plenty of exercise
• Have your eyes examined every year

Treating Age-Related Macular Degeneration

AMD has no cure. There is no way to eliminate the disease, nor is there any way to reverse the vision lost to AMD. However, once AMD has been detected through an eye exam, treatments can be administered to slow down the progression of the disease.