AMD Eye Disease

As humans get older, it is natural for their vision to weaken. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in Americans over 60 according to the National Eye Institute (NEI).

Effect

• AMD weakens a person's sharp, central vision controlled by the macula, located in the center of the retina.

Types

• Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels form under the macula and leak blood and fluid. This fluid raises the macula and causes rapid loss of central vision. Dry AMD occurs when light-sensitive cells in the macula break down and cause blurred central vision.

Stages of Dry AMD

• Dry AMD occurs in three stages: early, with little to medium sized drusen (yellow deposits under the retina); intermediate, with many medium-sized to one or more large drusen; and advanced, when the breakdown of cells causes blurred vision.

Signs

• Early signs of AMD include shadowy spots or blurriness in your central vision. For dry AMD, drusen develops and a blind spot may appear in the center of your vision. Wet AMD makes straight lines look crooked.

Detection and Treatment

• A comprehensive eye exam will detect AMD. Different treatments for wet AMD include laser surgery photodynamic therapy. There are currently no treatments for dry AMD.