Age-Related Macular Degeneration What Can Be Done?

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If things are looking blurred or straight lines appear distorted, it could be an indication of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common eye condition in people aged 50 years and older that can lead to irreversible central vision loss. (Fig.1) The loss of central vision could severely interfere with the ability to carry out everyday activities like reading and driving, and even impair the ability to recognise the faces of our loved ones. AMD occurs when there is damage to the macula, the centre part of the retina needed for sharp, central vision.

Types of AMD

There are two types of AMD: Dry or wet AMD. In dry AMD, waste materials produced by the retina are unable to be gotten rid of as effectively as before due to degeneration of the retina cells at the macula. This leads to accumulation of these waste materials under the retina, we call these deposits drusen. As more drusen accumulate under the retina, this can lead to the death of retina cells, which results in loss of vision that is irreversible. In the earliest stages of dry AMD, there could be little or no symptoms.

As it progresses, usually slowly over years, areas of blockage may develop within the central area of vision as the retinal cells further degenerate and die. These areas of blockage can become bigger over time and coalesce to cause a large central area of blocked vision in the advanced stage of dry AMD. Once these patches of blocked vision occurs, it is irreversible. Dry AMD usually occurs in both eyes but the severity of involvement can differ between both eyes.