What Is AMD?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive condition that damages the macula — the central part of the retina responsible for detailed central vision used for reading, driving and recognising faces. It does not cause complete blindness but can severely impair central vision.
Dry AMD vs Wet AMD
| Feature | Dry AMD | Wet AMD |
|---|---|---|
| Proportion | 90% | 10% |
| Progression | Slow — years to decades | Rapid — days to weeks |
| Drusen | Yes — hallmark finding | May have preceding dry AMD |
| Bleeding under retina | No | Yes — neovascularisation bleeds |
| Treatment | Supplements (AREDS2) — slows progression | Anti-VEGF injections — can preserve/improve vision |
Symptoms
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy (metamorphopsia) — early wet AMD
- Dark or blank spot in the centre of vision (scotoma)
- Colours appearing less vivid
- Difficulty reading fine print
Tests
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Amsler grid test | Simple home or clinic test — patient notes distortion/missing areas |
| OCT (optical coherence tomography) | Detailed retinal layers — detects fluid in wet AMD |
| Fluorescein angiography | Maps blood vessel leakage in wet AMD |
| Fundus photography | Documents and monitors drusen progression |
Blood Tests Linked to AMD Risk
- Blood pressure — hypertension accelerates AMD progression
- Lipid profile — cardiovascular risk shares overlap with AMD risk
- Blood glucose — diabetes increases AMD risk and severity
FAQs
Can AMD be prevented?
Risk reduced by: not smoking, healthy diet rich in leafy greens, wearing UV-protective sunglasses. AREDS2 supplements reduce progression risk by ~25% in intermediate AMD.
How often are anti-VEGF injections needed?
Initially monthly for 3 months, then every 1–3 months based on response. They are given directly into the eye (intravitreal injection) — effective but require long-term commitment.
Does AMD affect both eyes?
It often affects both eyes, though usually one eye more than the other. If one eye is diagnosed, the other needs regular monitoring.
Medical Disclaimer: Regular eye examinations are essential for early AMD detection. Wet AMD requires urgent referral to a retinal specialist to prevent irreversible vision loss.