As we age, our eyes change, and for some, these changes can lead to the gradual deterioration of the macula, the crucial part of the retina responsible for clear central vision. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that steals the gift of sight, leaving those affected grappling with its impact on their daily lives.
Dr Kaushik Dhume, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Manipal Hospitals, Goa, explained ADM, its types, and preventive conditions.
What Is Age-related Macular Degeneration?
AMD is a progressive eye condition that affects the macula, a small central portion of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It causes a person to lose their central vision, which makes it difficult for them to see fine details. Dr Dhume added, “It's crucial to understand that most people don't become fully blind because their peripheral vision is still intact.” According to a study published by Cureus, AMD with neovascularisation is one of the most common causes of blindness, affecting over 200 million people globally.
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Risk Factors Of ADM
Since in the early stages, there are often no symptoms, it often gets undiagnosed. Dr Dhume listed the risk factors for AMD as follows:
- Exposure to Ultraviolet rays of the Sun
- Age above 50
- Smoking
- Fatty diet
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular disease
- Positive family history of AMD
Types Of ADM
AMD is categorised into two types:
- Dry AMD
- Wet AMD
Dry AMD: In this type, the central vision gets blurred but is not completely lost. This is the most common type and accounts for 50% of all people with AMD. Dr Dhume said, “Its symptoms include visual distortions, such as straight lines seeming bent, the need for brighter light when reading, Increased difficulty adapting to low light levels, blurriness of printed words, and difficulty recognising faces. There is a possibility that dry AMD will progress to wet AMD.”
Wet AMD: In this type, abnormal blood vessels develop under the retina and macula. This is the more severe type and there is a more profound loss of central vision. Dr Dhume added that the patient is often left with a large central blind spot in the centre of vision.
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Treatment Of AMD
Dr Dhume said, “Currently, there is no definitive treatment for AMD. Although the condition can present difficulties, there are practical ways to manage it and slow its progression. Treatment of wet AMD is by using intraocular injections of certain drugs called anti-VEGF agents. Anti-VEGF treatment often involves repeated injections over time and is routinely given to achieve desired results. Other less commonly used treatment options include photodynamic therapy and laser therapy.”
How To Prevent ADM
Dr Dhume listed measures to be taken to prevent or slow the progression of macular degeneration as follows:
- Quitting smoking
- Eating leafy green vegetables
- Wearing sunglasses outdoors
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, blood pressure, and weight.
- Periodic eye checkups, particularly if there is a family history of AMD
- A combination of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals might slow the progression of dry AMD and these are prescribed to patients who have been diagnosed with dry AMD.
Bottomline
Dr Dhume concluded, “Early diagnosis and treatment of AMD when it is in its mildest state are the best ways to manage it. Every person over 50 years should get their eyes tested so that early AMD can be detected and treated since there are frequently no noticeable symptoms.”
Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided by the expert and is for information purposes only. Hence, it is advisable to consult with an expert for a diagnosis based on your medical history and body type.