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Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration is a condition in which the central area of vision, known as the macula, becomes weakened.

What does it consist of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) ?

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a chronic eye disease that affects the macula, a part of the retina crucial for clear and sharp vision. The macula is responsible for central vision, allowing us to see fine details and recognize faces. AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in individuals over the age of 50.

Symptoms of AMD:

AMD can be completely asymptomatic in its early and intermediate stages. This means it can progress for a long time without the affected person noticing any changes in their vision. However, as the disease advances, symptoms may appear, such as:

Blurred or distorted vision: Central vision may start to appear blurred or distorted, as if there is a spot or veil in front of the eyes.
Difficulty seeing in low-light conditions: It may be challenging to see in dimly lit places or at night.
Straight lines appearing wavy: Straight lines may appear wavy or distorted.
Difficulty recognizing faces: It may be hard to recognize people’s faces, especially in low-light conditions.

Types of AMD:

There are two main types of AMD:

Dry or atrophic AMD: This is the most common form of AMD and is characterized by the presence of drusen, small deposits of fat and proteins that accumulate in the macula. Over time, these drusen can cause deterioration and thinning of the macula, affecting central vision. Dry AMD typically progresses slowly over several years.
Wet or exudative AMD: This form is less common but more severe than dry AMD. It is characterized by the formation of abnormal new blood vessels under the macula. These blood vessels can leak fluid or blood, damaging the macula and causing rapid and significant loss of central vision. Wet AMD can progress within days or weeks.

More information about Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Currently, there is no cure for AMD, but several treatments are available to help manage the disease and minimize vision loss. The treatment will depend on the type and severity of AMD.

Dry AMD: In dry AMD, nutritional supplements containing antioxidants and zinc may help slow the progression of the disease.
Wet AMD: In wet AMD, intraocular injections of anti-angiogenic agents can be used to slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels. These injections are administered directly into the eye with a fine needle and work by inhibiting the growth of abnormal blood vessels. It is important to note that wet AMD treatment is typically long-term and may require regular injections to maintain vision.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent AMD, several habits can help reduce the risk of developing the disease or slow its progression. These include:

Avoid smoking: Quitting smoking is one of the best ways to lower the risk of AMD.
Maintain a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish can help protect eye health. These foods contain antioxidants that may help combat cellular damage associated with AMD.
Control blood pressure: Keeping blood pressure under control can help reduce the risk of AMD.
Protect your eyes from sunlight: It is important to shield your eyes from harmful sunlight by wearing sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
Have regular eye exams: Routine eye check-ups with an ophthalmologist can help detect AMD in its early stages when treatment is most effective.

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