What Vision Looks Like with Age-Related Macular Degeneration

As we get older, our eyes undergo changes that can increase the risk of certain conditions. One of the most common eye conditions affecting older adults is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This condition can significantly impact daily life by affecting your central vision, making tasks such as reading and driving more challenging. In this blog, we’ll discuss what AMD is, how it affects vision, and some options for diagnosis and treatment. 
 

What is age-related macular degeneration? 

AMD is a progressive eye condition that affects the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for clear, detailed vision. As AMD develops, it can lead to blurred or distorted central vision, making activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces more difficult. Although peripheral vision usually remains intact, the loss of central vision can be significantly disruptive.
 

Types of AMD 

There are two main types of age-related macular degeneration: 

• Dry AMD: This is the most common form, accounting for about 80-90% of cases. It occurs when the macula thins over time as part of the aging process, leading to a gradual loss of central vision. Dry AMD often progresses slowly. 

• Wet AMD: Although less common, wet AMD is more severe and can lead to rapid vision loss. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, damaging the macula.
   

How AMD affects vision 

AMD may not have symptoms early on, which is why regular eye exams are essential for early detection. As the condition progresses, you might notice symptoms like: 

• Blurry vision 

• Straight lines appearing wavy or bent 

• Dark spots in the center of your vision 

• Color perception issues
   

Early detection of AMD 

At Lifetime Eyecare, we use cutting-edge technology to diagnose AMD accurately and early on before you notice symptoms. One of our key diagnostic tools is the AdaptDx Pro® test by MacuLogix®. This test tells us how long it takes for your eyes to adjust from seeing in the light to seeing in the dark. If your eyes take significantly longer than normal to adapt to darkness, that could be an early sign of AMD. By identifying changes early, we can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
 

Treatment options and prevention 

While there’s currently no cure for AMD, there are several ways to slow its progression. At Lifetime Eyecare, we offer AMD treatment in Newton to help you protect your vision. We may recommend MacuHealth supplements, which are formulated to support eye health. These supplements include essential nutrients that can help maintain macular health and slow AMD progression.

In cases of wet AMD, anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections can help slow down vision loss by reducing the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. Other treatment options include laser therapy and photodynamic therapy.
 

Schedule an appointment today 

Routine eye exams are vital for catching AMD early and keeping an eye on any changes. They give us the chance to adjust your treatment plan as needed. If you’re over 50 or have a family history of AMD, regular check-ups are especially important.

Our team is happy to assist you with AMD and other eye-related issues. Please schedule an appointment with us today. With our advanced technology and effective treatment options, we can help you enjoy life to the fullest, even when faced with vision challenges.