Macular degeneration, commonly referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is the single largest cause of sight loss in the developed world and affects more than 10 million Americans. It usually affects people over the age of 60, but has been known to affect those who are younger. It is a painless condition that usually affects both eyes with the loss being experienced in the central vision. It does not affect the peripheral vision, meaning that it does not cause total blindness.

What is the macula?

The macula is the most sensitive part of the retina and is responsible for our central vision and what allows us to see fine details with clarity.

​​​​​​​TWO TYPES OF MACULAR DEGENERATION (AMD)

A. DRY FORM:

• The dry form is usually less severe.
• The progression of the disease is slower (years).
• The first sign may be the formation of small yellow flecks called drusen (SEE PICTURE).
• Unfortunately, there is no actual treatment. Over-the-counter eye vitamins containing Lutein & Zeaxanthin have been shown to slow progression.
• Stop smoking (the number one risk factor besides genetics)
• Eating dark greens and fish (particularly salmon) is very good at staving off AMD.
• To prevent it from developing into a wet form, both office and home monitoring are used.
• GEOGRAPHIC ATROPHY: A more serious, less common sub type of dry AMD, which can lead to more severe visual loss. As of 2023 there is a treatment available that can slow the progression.

B. WET FORM:

• The wet form is considered more severe than the dry form due to bleeding.
• The progression is faster.
• TREATMENT is usually monthly eye injections of Anti-VEGF medications such as Avastin, Lucentis, or Eylea.
• The patient needs to be closely monitored both in the office and at home (with a special Amsler Grid chart).
• Special magnifiers to help enlarge the print can also be prescribed for both wet and dry AMD​​​​​​

AMSLER GRID

Patients are given an Amsler Grid to self check at home. Any distortion or blank areas of the grid indicate progression of the disease and should be promptly relayed to the doctor.