Age-Related Macular Degeneration Rates on the Rise
February is AMD Awareness Month, and although we take the care of your eyes and retina seriously all year long, now is a good time to take an in depth look at Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). AMD is a common retinal condition that our board-certified retina specialists treat frequently at Austin Retina Associates.
It is estimated that nearly 20 million Americans aged 40 years and older have some form of AMD. If not treated properly, AMD can lead to significant vision loss and even blindness.
AMD develops as the result of abnormal cellular by-products accumulating in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for our central and sharpened vision, used for things like reading, watching TV, and driving. When AMD develops, vision becomes blurred.
Recent research has found that rates of AMD are increasing, and it is being diagnosed in people with ages younger than ever before. Experts predict that the disease will grow to affect more than 280 million people around the world by the year 2040.
The increase in cases of AMD diagnosed could be attributed to better diagnostic tools and a broader awareness of the disease and its warning signs. “Better screening for AMD leads to better outcomes for patients,” says retina specialist John Fitzpatrick, MD. “The earlier we catch the problem the more vision we can preserve.”
Common symptoms of AMD include:
● Blurred vision
● Difficulty seeing at night, or in low light
● Trouble seeing fine details up close, such as facial expressions
Risk factors known to contribute to AMD are advanced age, genetics, high blood pressure, obesity, and smoking.
AMD can develop in one or both eyes and in either one of two forms, Dry AMD or Wet AMD.
What is Dry AMD?
Dry AMD occurs when cellular debris accumulates under the macula. It progresses gradually in three stages: Early, Intermediate and Advanced.
Early: typically there are no symptoms present yet, but it may be detectable via a regular eye exam with your optometrist or ophthalmologist
Intermediate (also referred to as the middle stage): mild blurriness may begin to develop along with other symptoms like difficulty seeing in low light
Advanced: symptoms at this stage are progressively worse with definite blurred vision, dark spots in your central sight line, inability to see or focus on fine details, and sometimes colors will appear dull and diluted
What is Wet AMD?
Wet AMD occurs when new blood vessels grow into the retinal layers and leak into the macula. This typically occurs in later or advanced stages of Dry AMD.
How do you treat AMD?
Dry AMD is treated with medications administered directly to the eye designed to slow progression of the disease. Additionally, some supplements have shown to be effective in slowing it down as well, including vitamins C and E, zinc, copper and lutein.
For Wet AMD, there are several treatment options that can manage the abnormal, or leaking, cells, including intravitreal injections, thermal laser therapy, or photodynamic therapy (PDT).
The most effective way to prevent AMD is to schedule regular eye exams and see a retina specialist right away if you experience any type of difficulty with your vision. The earlier that AMD is detected and you start intervention, the better chance you have of preserving your sight.
Consult with a Retina Specialist Today
Austin Retina Associates treats a wide range of retinal conditions. Our experienced team of retina specialists in Austin are dedicated to improving your vision and quality of life.
Contact us at 800-252-8259, or request an appointment online at one of our retina treatment centers located in Austin and throughout Central Texas.
For the latest Austin Retina news, visit our blog or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
