AMD : Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of age related macular degeneration

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects the macula, a small area located at the center of the retina essential for detailed vision. Today, it is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over 50.

This condition progresses gradually and can lead to severe central vision loss, making reading, recognizing faces, and performing precise daily tasks difficult. But what are the symptoms of AMD? What are the causes, and are there any treatments? Let's take a closer look.

What is AMD?

AMD, or Age-Related Macular Degeneration, is a chronic disease that progressively affects the macula. It does not cause complete blindness but impairs the ability to see clearly, leaving peripheral vision intact.

The two main types of AMD

• Dry AMD (atrophic): The most common form (about 85% of cases), it progresses slowly and leads to the gradual destruction of macular cells.
• Wet AMD (exudative): Less common but more aggressive, caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, leading to fluid leakage and rapid vision loss.

What are the symptoms of AMD?

Early-stage AMD can go unnoticed, as it often presents no visible symptoms. As the disease progresses, certain signs may indicate its presence:

• Blurred vision: Difficulty seeing details even with appropriate glasses.
• Distortion of straight lines: Appearance of waviness in texts or objects.
• Central dark spot: Feeling of a shadow or black spot in the center of the visual field.
• Difficulty perceiving colors: Colors appear faded or less vibrant.

AMD: Risk factors and predispositions

Several factors increase the risk of developing AMD:

• Age: The prevalence of the disease increases after age 50.
• Genetic predisposition: A family history of AMD increases the risk.
• Smoking: Smoking nearly doubles the risk of AMD.
• Excessive exposure to blue light: Screens and sunlight can accelerate retinal degeneration.
• Hypertension and cardiovascular diseases: Poor blood circulation can contribute to AMD development.

What are the treatments for AMD?

To date, there is no curative treatment for dry AMD, but certain measures can slow its progression.

Treatments for wet AMD

• Intraocular injections: Aim to block the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
• Photodynamic therapy: Combines a laser with a medication to limit fluid leakage.

How to prevent AMD?

• Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses to shield from UV rays.
• Antioxidant-rich diet: Favor foods high in omega-3 and vitamin C.
• Avoid smoking: A major risk factor.
• Regular eye exams: Early ophthalmologic check-ups can detect potential abnormalities.

Conclusion

AMD is a progressive disease that impacts central vision. By adopting healthy habits and undergoing regular eye check-ups, its progression can be slowed.

?️ Take care of your eyes and consult a specialist if in doubt!