copy of copy of retina ph mastercopy
Book Now
Clear, patient-friendly information

Understanding Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, affects the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for detailed vision

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

How should you use this?

Gentle reminder

Learning about an eye condition can help you understand your symptoms and the questions you may want to ask your ophthalmologist. But online information cannot determine what is happening in your individual eyes.

This information is for education only and should not replace a consultation or comprehensive eye examination

If you are experiencing new, sudden, or worsening changes in your vision, an eye examination can help determine the cause and the appropriate care.

What is it?

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision.

AMD can occur in different forms. Dry AMD is more common and involves changes such as drusen and gradual loss of retinal tissue. Wet or neovascular AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels develop and leak fluid or blood beneath or within the retina.

amdbristolretinaophthalmologistsidathliyanage 1.webp

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Symptom

What might I notice?

Blurred central vision

Fine details may become harder to see.

Distorted vision

Straight lines may appear bent or wavy

Difficulty reading

Small print may become increasingly difficult to distinguish.

Difficulty recognizing faces

Faces may become harder to recognize, particularly at a distance.

Difficulty seeing in low light

Part of your visual field may appear less clear or distorted. .

Floaters

You may find it harder to see clearly in dim lighting or when moving between bright and dark environments.

*Sometimes, no noticeable symptoms

2993ef02f108e87ac2e6ed729c513042 1 e1790277493771 1.webp
Signs you may recognize

How Might This Feel in Everyday Life?

You might find yourself holding a book farther away, increasing the text size on your phone, or needing brighter light to read.

Faces may become harder to recognize, or straight lines may begin to look bent or wavy.

Sometimes the changes are subtle enough that you simply feel your vision is “not quite as clear as it used to be.”

What tests need to be done?

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a dilated retinal examination and often OCT imaging. Additional imaging, including fluorescein angiography or other retinal imaging, may be used when needed to determine whether abnormal blood vessels are present.

ca39761c3c4d3847df1a1ae1f97720cd e1790279661967 1.webp

Causes & Risk Factors​

Factors That May Play a Role

Increasing age

The risk of AMD increases as we get older, particularly after age 50, as age-related changes occur in the retina and macula.

High cholesterol

Abnormal cholesterol levels may contribute to changes in blood vessels and are associated with an increased risk of AMD.

Family history

Having a close family member with AMD can increase your risk, reflecting the role that genetics may play in the condition.

Cardiovascular disease

Heart and blood vessel conditions have been associated with a higher risk of AMD.

Smoking

Smoking can significantly increase the risk of AMD and is one of the most important modifiable risk factors.

Being overweight

Being overweight may increase the risk of AMD, particularly when combined with other cardiovascular risk factors.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure can affect blood vessel health and has been associated with an increased risk of AMD.

Diet high in saturated fat

A diet high in saturated fats may be associated with a higher risk of AMD. A balanced diet rich in leafy greens and other nutrient-rich foods supports overall eye health
A little attention goes a long way.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on managing complications rather than reversing the original vein blockage.

If retinal vein occlusion causes macular edema, treatment may include:

Dry AMD

Management may include monitoring, lifestyle and risk-factor modification, and specific nutritional supplements for appropriate patients based on the stage of disease.

Geographic atrophy

Certain treatments targeting the complement pathway are available for selected patients with geographic atrophy, depending on individual circumstances and local availability.

Wet AMD

The main treatment is intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy, which helps reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage. Treatment often requires a series of injections and ongoing monitoring.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

A light-activated medication is used to target abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. It may be considered in selected cases, particularly certain forms of wet AMD.
A little attention goes a long way.

When to Seek Care

New distortion, a sudden change in central vision, or a new dark or blurry area should be evaluated promptly.

Regular eye examinations are also important because AMD can progress before significant symptoms become noticeable.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Does AMD cause blindness?

AMD primarily affects central vision. Advanced disease can cause significant central visual impairment, although peripheral vision is generally preserved.

No. They are different forms of AMD. Wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessels and leakage and can cause more rapid vision changes.

Anti-VEGF injections can control abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage, but treatment usually requires ongoing monitoring and may require repeated injections.

Not all cases can be prevented, but addressing modifiable risk factors, particularly smoking, and maintaining regular eye examinations can help with risk management and early detection.

Still have questions?

Still have questions about your eyes or vision? Explore answers to common questions about retinal conditions, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment, and gain a clearer understanding of your eye health.

Send us a message