Ophthalmologist at Florida Eye Specialists
Special to the Recorder
As many as 11 million people in the U.S. currently have some form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) — a number that is expected to double to nearly 22 million by 2050.
AMD is an incurable eye disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the country. The condition, which is most common in adults 55 and over, centers around the macula, the part of the eye that is used to see fine detail.
Every February, we focus on spreading awareness of this sight-stealing disease during Age-Related Macular Degeneration Month. It’s important to understand the varying types and the ways you can detect and prevent the condition.
Distinction between types
There are two distinct types of AMD: “dry” and “wet.” While both can result in significant vision loss, they affect the macula in different ways.
The overwhelming majority of AMD patients suffer from the “dry” type of the disease, which is characterized by the presence of yellow deposits in the macula. As these deposits accumulate, patients experience reduced vision and eventual central vision loss. Patients with dry AMD will often first notice blurred vision or a central blind spot that gradually increases in size over the span of a few years.
Patients with wet AMD, however, will experience symptoms at a much more rapid pace, with some noticing a dramatic change seemingly overnight. Wet AMD, which only affects about 10 percent of patients, is caused by fluid leaks from abnormal blood vessels in the eye. As the fluid pools up underneath the retina, the macula is slightly lifted, causing vision distortion.
Signs and symptoms to look for in both types of AMD include difficulty distinguishing colors and recognizing fine details. But while dry AMD is often associated with a growing blind spot, wet AMD patients are more likely to notice trouble seeing straight lines.
Future of the disease
While there is no cure for AMD, researchers continue to uncover solutions to preserve vision in patients. Current treatment options range from diet changes to anti-angiogenic drugs.
A major clinical trial sponsored by the National Eye Institute found that a modified combination of vitamins and minerals can actually help to slow the progression of vision loss in some AMD patients.
In addition, recent breakthroughs in research, including a study from the University of Liverpool, show evidence of specific genetic markers in those with AMD. While this exciting new research is paving the way for the development of targeted genetic treatments for the disease, it will likely be many years before these new findings translate to trusted therapies.
The single most important thing that you can do to protect yourself from AMD is to visit your eye doctor annually. Early detection is crucial, so take note of any symptoms in your vision and seek medical help at the first sign of any noticeable changes.
Dr. McGregor N. Lott is an ophthalmologist with Florida Eye Specialists. He is fellowship-trained in medical retina and has been practicing ophthalmology for nearly 15 years. For more information, visit FloridaEyeSpecialists.com.
