AMD Awareness Month: Your Guide to Living with Macular Degeneration

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss, primarily affecting the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for clear vision. As people age, the risk of AMD increases, making it a significant concern for the elderly population.

AMD presents in two forms: dry and wet. Dry AMD is more common, characterized by a slow, continuous thinning of the macula, leading to a gradual decrease in central ​​​​​​vision. Wet AMD causes new vessel growth under the macula, called neovascularization. These often rupture, leading to a severe, more acute loss of vision. The early stages of AMD may not show noticeable symptoms, but blurred or distorted vision may become apparent as it progresses. Risk factors include age, genetics, lifestyle choices like smoking, and other inflammatory diseases like diabetes.

While there is no cure for AMD, early detection through regular eye exams is vital for effective management. Treatment options vary, with a focus on slowing progression and preserving vision. At Clarkson Eyecare, we emphasize early detection and personalized care plans to manage AMD effectively.

Early Symptoms of AMD to Watch For

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) often starts quietly. In early AMD, many people have no noticeable symptoms, which is why regular comprehensive eye exams matter, especially after age 50. Common early (or subtle) symptoms can include:

• Blurry or fuzzy central vision

• Difficulty reading small print or needing brighter light to read

• Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted

• A dark, gray, or blank spot in central vision

• Colors looking less vivid than they used to

Wet AMD symptoms can feel more sudden. If you notice rapid changes, new distortion, or a new central dark spot, schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

AMD Awareness Month: Why It Matters

AMD Awareness Month is pivotal in bringing age-related macular degeneration into the spotlight. This observance is not just a matter of marking a date on the calendar; it's about actively having a conversation that could profoundly impact millions of lives. At Clarkson Eyecare, we see this month as a vital opportunity to spread knowledge and understanding about AMD, highlighting the importance of early detection through regular eye exams.

This observance is focused on empowering those affected by AMD and the wider community. It's a time to share the latest treatment advancements and practical strategies for managing AMD, reinforcing our commitment to patient care and support.

Additionally, AMD Awareness Month highlights ongoing research, underscoring the need for continued exploration into better treatment and management options. Through education and advocacy, Clarkson Eyecare is dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes and supporting the broader fight against AMD.

Stages of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is typically grouped by type (dry vs. wet) and stage (how advanced it appears on exam and imaging). Most people have dry AMD, which usually progresses in three stages: early, intermediate, and late.

Dry AMD staging is defined by the size and number of drusen (tiny yellow deposits under the retina) and by whether there are pigment changes in the retina. Very small drusen can be a normal part of aging, but medium-to-large drusen may indicate AMD. Your doctor may also see dark clumps of pigment or lighter, less pigmented areas beneath the retina, which are signs the retinal support layer is changing over time.

The three stages of AMD include:

• Early Dry AMD: The doctor sees medium-sized drusen without related pigment abnormalities. You likely are experiencing no symptoms or vision loss, so your doctor will monitor changes over time with routine exams.

• Intermediate Dry AMD: Your doctor likely notices large drusen and/or pigment changes in the retina. Some people still have no symptoms, but others may notice mild blurriness in central vision or trouble seeing in low lighting.

• Late Stage AMD: This means the macula has sustained enough damage to cause central vision loss. Late dry AMD is caused by the gradual breakdown of light-sensitive cells, while wet AMD is always in the late stage and can develop from any stage of dry AMD.

Macular Degeneration Prevention and Management

While AMD is a significant concern that can lead to irreversible blindness, there are proactive steps you can take to manage and possibly prevent its progression.

Risk-Reduction Strategies

One of the best ways to prevent AMD is through early detection. During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor can identify signs of AMD before symptoms even appear. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also reduce your risk of AMD. This includes a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking. Finally, protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses can help lower your chances of developing AMD or speeding up its progression.

Management Techniques

Specific nutritional supplements, ​​often containing specific antioxidants and two carotenoids called lutein and zeaxanthin, may slow disease progression for certain individuals with AMD. Additionally, in cases of vision loss, vision rehabilitation can help you adapt to your changing vision. Depending on the type and severity of AMD, treatments like injectable medications or laser therapy may slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels.

How AMD Is Diagnosed

AMD is usually found during a comprehensive dilated eye exam, often before noticeable symptoms appear. This exam is simple and painless: your eye doctor uses drops to dilate (widen) the pupil and examine the retina and macula for AMD and other eye problems.

1. History and Symptom Review: Your provider will ask about changes in central vision, your family history and lifestyle factors (like smoking), and request a general health history. This can include medications or previous diagnoses that may affect your eye health.

2. Dilated Retinal Exam: During the dilated exam, your eye doctor looks for hallmark AMD changes, including drusen, pigmentary changes, and signs suggesting wet AMD like fluid, bleeding, or swelling.

3. Retinal Imaging: Your doctor may recommend imaging to document the macula and detect subtle changes. An optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive test that takes detailed pictures of the retina’s layers. Many clinics use cameras/scanners to capture images that help track changes over time.

4. Vascular Testing: If your doctor suspects abnormal vessel growth common with wet AMD, they may recommend a fluorescein angiography. This test uses special dye to assess blood flow and look for abnormal vessels or leakage.

Living with Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Navigating life with age-related macular degeneration can be challenging, but at Clarkson Eyecare, we’re dedicated to helping patients adjust and maintain a fulfilling lifestyle. In terms of professional support, our team provides personalized care plans, considering your unique situation and needs, to create a tailored treatment plan that works best for you. We also understand the emotional impact of AMD and offer resources to support our patients’ mental and emotional well-being.

Beyond regularly completing eye exams and seeking support at Clarkson Eyecare, various assistive devices are available to help individuals with AMD maintain their independence. This can include magnifying glasses or text-to-speech software. Additionally, simple changes in the home, such as better lighting and high-contrast colors, can significantly enhance daily living for someone with AMD.

Living with AMD requires adjustments, but individuals can continue to enjoy a high quality of life with the right support and resources. Clarkson Eyecare is here to guide and support our patients every step of the way, ensuring they have access to the best care and resources.

How to Get Involved in AMD Awareness Month

Participating in AMD Awareness activities is a meaningful way to contribute to the cause and support those affected. At Clarkson Eyecare, we encourage everyone to get involved, whether you're directly impacted by AMD or simply passionate about promoting eye health. You can participate in AMD Awareness Month in a few ways: 

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Start by learning about AMD and then share this knowledge with friends, family, and your community. Awareness is a powerful tool in the fight against AMD. 

2. Participate in Events: Look out for AMD Awareness events, such as seminars, webinars, or community screenings. These events are great opportunities to learn more and engage with others. 

3. Advocacy: Advocate for more research and better care for AMD by supporting eye health initiatives and contacting local representatives.

Getting involved in AMD Awareness Month is not just about a single month of activities; it's about fostering a year-round commitment to eye health. We at Clarkson Eyecare invite you to join us in this important endeavor, as we work together to positively impact the lives of those affected by AMD.