Age Related Macular Degeneration

WHAT IS MACULAR DEGENERATION

Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a gradual deterioration of the macular tissue in the retina. Typically age-related, this common condition is probably caused by multiple factors including genetics and circulation, as well as nutrition. It is the leading cause of vision loss in seniors.

AMD can range from mild, with minimal or no vision problems, to severe, with significant central vision loss and even legal blindness. Since this condition does not affect the part of the eye responsible for peripheral (side) vision, patients never go completely blind.

TYPES OF AMD

Dry AMD is the most prevalent form of macular degeneration. Retinal cells that support sight grow thinner or break down, causing gradual loss of central and color vision. While dry AMD tends to progress very slowly, it is difficult to treat.

Wet AMD occurs when weak, new blood vessels grow where they should not be in the retinal area. These vessels break and bleed, causing sudden central vision loss. Side vision remains intact.

Treatment of Wet AMD

Treatment for wet AMD can include laser procedures or injectable medicines (Avastin, Lucentis, etc) that cause the leaky blood vessels to stop growing. In combination with eye vitamins and a healthy lifestyle, these options can help slow vision loss.

​​​​​​​LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

To lessen the odds of developing AMD or help slow down the progression if you already have it:
• Do not smoke
• Eat a balanced diet with green, leafy vegetables
• Exercise regularly
• Wear sunglasses outdoors
• Keep blood pressure and cholesterol at healthy levels

​​​​​​​LIVING WITH VISION LOSS

Patients with advanced macular degeneration experience many vision challenges in everyday life. However, there are tools available to enable patients to live as normally as possible. Magnification devices can help with reading and there are techniques for training the eye to use remaining vision as efficiently as possible. These possibilities can be explored with our low vision specialist at Richie Eye Clinic & LASIK Center.

​​​​​​​EYE VITAMINS
Vitamins slow the progression of vision loss in AMD by 25-39% according to the AREDS 2 Study. Completed in 2013, AREDS 2 (Age Related Eye Disease Study) recommends a multi-vitamin containing Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, Copper, Lutein, and Zeaxanthin as the most useful way to achieve the proper nutrition helpful for vision. Two of the best brands of these vitamins are listed below. Two capsules per day is the recommended dose for both.

FOCUS VISION
Focus Vision supplements are specially developed for macular degeneration. Created by the retina doctors involved in the AREDS 2 study, this trusted brand comes in both pill and chewable tablets-both available in the Optical Department at Richie Eye Clinic & LASIK Center.

OCUVITE OR PRESERVISION
These supplements are specially developed for macular degeneration. Available in most drug stores over the counter