Macular degeneration is a condition that results from damage to a section of the eye's retina. The retina is what appears at the eye's rear section. It transmits light from images to the brain before translating them into sight.

This part of the retina is known as the macula and is responsible for capturing detailed information from the central visual field. Understanding the risk factors for age-related macular degeneration is crucial.

Age-related Macular Degeneration
 

Age-related macular degeneration is a well-known cause of loss of sight among individuals 50 years and older. The condition affects central vision and can cause blindness. It can affect an individual’s capacity to see fine details.

Deterioration of the macula affects detailed central vision, resulting in reduced visual acuity. It makes it difficult, and sometimes impossible, to recognize faces, drive, read, play sports, and perform other detailed tasks. 

Types of Macular Degeneration

Reduced color perception can make objects look dull. If the central vision loss becomes extensive, very little useful sight remains. Over time, magnifying devices fail to work, and individuals are only left with peripheral vision.

The early stages of this condition may not present signs or symptoms. Types of AMD include dry macular degeneration and wet macular degeneration. Dry AMD is the most prevalent type, affecting 80 percent of those with the condition. Wet AMD is less common but leads to more severe symptoms. 

Understanding the Risk Factors for AMD 

Several factors increase the chances of developing AMD. They are often complex, and some, like age and genetics, cannot be controlled. Others are controllable, such as weight problems, smoking, unchecked diabetes, high blood pressure, and failure to use eye protection. Factors include:

• Being an adult over 50 years.

• Having high blood pressure or hypertension.

• Smoking.

• Consuming a poor diet high in saturated fat.

• Increased drusen size.

• A history of diabetes. 
   

Symptoms of AMD
 

Symptoms of AMD may vary with the individual. Individuals experience the symptoms differently. They include:

• Blurry vision.

• Trouble distinguishing faces.

• Straight lines appearing wavy.

• Empty or dark areas in the central vision.

• Loss of central vision. 

• Presence of small yellow deposits in the retina.
   

The symptoms of AMD may resemble those of other eye conditions. Thus, a diagnosis is essential to ensure you get the most effective treatment. 

Treatment of AMD

Treatment is based on the patient’s age, type, disease severity, and underlying health conditions. The nature and extent of the condition and your tolerance for certain medications will also determine the best treatment.

There is no cure for AMD-related vision issues, but there are ways to improve vision. Low-vision devices and rehabilitation programs can help build visual skills. Regular eye exams are vital for detecting early signs of AMD. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent vision loss. Contact your eye doctor immediately if you experience vision changes. 
 

For more on understanding the risk factors for age-related macular degeneration, call Clarity Vision in Clayton at (919) 550-4801 to schedule an appointment today.