What is Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
AMD involved the centre of your vision becoming blurry whereas the peripheral vision remain unaffected. AMD is the leading cause of blindness in North America for adults over the age of 55. Approximately 90% of patients have the dry form of AMD where the degeneration of central retinal tissues is a gradual process. 10% of patients have the wet form, which is a sudden blood leakage resulting from weakened blood vessels.
What are the symptoms of AMD?
AMD is asymptomatic during early stages. It can however, be detected with a routine eye health examination. As the condition worsens, common symptoms such as blurred central vision become more prevalent during every day activities.
How to treat AMD?
Dry form of AMD is treated with vitamin supplements and lifestyle modifications such as wearing sunglasses, increase in exercise routines and reduction in smoking. Treatments for AMD involve injections into the eye to stop blood leakage. To relieve symptoms, patients suffering from AMD may also be prescribed low vision aids.
