Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease involving the deterioration of the macula, the central portion of the retina, which is responsible for our central vision. People who suffer with advanced AMD find it impossible to do everyday activities that involve their central vision, such as reading and driving.

Symptoms (May) Include:

• Shadows or missing sections of vision
• Blurry vision
• Distorted vision
• Decreased contrast sensitivity

Types of AMD

AMD is classified as either the dry form or the wet form of macular degeneration.

"Dry" Macular Degeneration

The most common form of AMD is the dry form of macular degeneration. It is caused by the breakdown of cells in the macula. Small yellow-white spots, called drusen, are one of the signs that point to the presence of the disease. Drusen does not necessarily cause a reduction in vision, but as they become larger and more numerous, the risk of visual decline becomes more likely.

"Wet" Macular Degeneration

Unlike dry macular degeneration, vision loss from the wet form of macular degeneration is much more rapid. This more serious type of macular degeneration affects about 10-15% of AMD patients. Abnormal blood vessels may grow beneath the retina and leak blood and proteins. This can cause permanent blind spots in your central vision.

Risk Factors for AMD

• Aging
• Smoking
• Exposure to sunlight
• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular risk factors (cholesterol, obesity, etc.)
• Family history
• Race

Specialized Testing

Dr. Bello and his staff, at Advanced Vision Specialists, offer specialized testing using the PHP, to help detect and monitor the wet form of AMD. The Foresee PHP is a unique monitoring device, detecting early AMD changes, and is vital in obtaining the correct diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no treatment that can reverse macular degeneration, however, there are ways you can slow it down.

Nutrition:

To prevent decreasing vision and to stop the progression of dry macular degeneration, the most common treatment is antioxidants. Studies have shown that taking specific supplements such as zinc,lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamins A, C and E and also eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are particularly abundant in cold-water fish, have the potential to help slow down vision loss and the effects of macular degeneration. The body needs a larger amount of antioxidants than what is found in our typical diets.

Monitoring:

Many patients with macular degeneration consistently monitor their vision at home by using an Amsler grid. The Amsler grid is essentially a graph, with straight vertical and horizontal lines and a small dark circle in the center. If the patient notices straight lines on the Amsler grid becoming wavy, or experiences any previous distortions becoming worse, their macular degeneration may be progressing.

Treatment:

Wet macular degeneration is commonly treated with injections into the eye and laser treatments, depending on the location and amount of leakage present. Each method has its risks and benefits that are involved. Routine eye exams, along with our Foresee PHP testing, are necessary to ensure that the disease is not progressing. For patients with macular degeneration, lamps, magnifiers and other forms of low vision aids can give their existing vision its greatest potential, and in some cases, can improve their quality of life significantly.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of macular degeneration, we encourage you to contact us today at 1-773-775-9755 to schedule a exam.