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Everything you need to know about most-common cause of age-related vision loss

By Dr. McGregor N. Lott, M.D. Florida Eye Specialists
Posted 4/27/22

CLAY COUNTY – Age-related macular degeneration, also known as macular degeneration or “AMD, is a problem with your retina. It’s the leading cause of vision loss in the country, and …

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Everything you need to know about most-common cause of age-related vision loss


Posted

CLAY COUNTY – Age-related macular degeneration, also known as macular degeneration or “AMD, is a problem with your retina. It’s the leading cause of vision loss in the country, and at least 11 million people have this condition. That number is expected to double to nearly 22 million by 2050. If you are 55 or older, have worsening vision or a family history of this common eye condition, you may be at risk.
It’s important to know that AMD can lead to a rapid and severe loss of sight. Once that sight is lost, it cannot be restored. Saving vision is dependent on catching the condition early. That’s why it’s important to understand the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options for the condition. Don’t lose sight of your favorite activities – here are the top tips to protect your vision.

What is age-related macular degeneration?
AMD centers around the macula, which is the part of the eye that is used to see fine detail and gives us our ability to read, drive, watch TV, use a computer, and recognize faces. AMD primarily affects central vision, causing blind spots directly ahead. This type of vision loss can be severe and irreversible if left untreated, making early detection critical.

Types of AMD
There are two distinct types of AMD: “dry” and “wet.” The majority of AMD patients suffer from dry macular degeneration. It’s usually less severe and progresses gradually. Wet macular degeneration usually causes much more rapid and severe damage. Some patients may notice a dramatic change in their vision seemingly overnight.

Risk factors
AMD mainly affects patients 55 years of age and older. However, there is a genetic condition that can lead to macular degeneration in younger patients, so it’s important to know your family history. There is evidence that tobacco use may play a role in development as well.

Symptoms
Look out for blurred or distorted vision, blind spots, reduced central vision, difficulty adapting to low light levels and vision loss. In both types of AMD, you may have 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. At Florida Eye Specialists, we have our patients regularly check their vision with an at-home eye test known as the Amsler grid. It’s a quick and easy way to notice vision changes between appointments.
The most important thing is to never ignore any changes in your vision. AMD is degenerative, and symptoms will only worsen over time without proper treatment. If you notice any changes, even if they seem small, seek treatment as soon as possible.

Treatments
For patients with wet macular degenerations, there are medications or ocular injections that inhibit new blood vessels. For those with the dry form of the disease, diet changes and a combination of vitamins and minerals have been found to help slow the progression of vision loss in some patients.

Vision success starts with
getting your eyes checked
If you’re overdue for your annual eye exam, don’t wait any longer. Screening for conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts is quick and easy, and can help save your vision. Remember, there is nothing more precious than your sight.

Dr. McGregor N. Lott, M.D., is an ophthalmologist at Florida Eye Specialists. For more information on Dr. Lott’s specialty in treating macular degeneration or to schedule an appointment, visit FloridaEyeSpecialists.com or call (904) 564-2020.