What is age-related macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when certain parts of your eye -- the retina and the choroid -- begin to deteriorate, leading to a decrease in the sharpness of your vision. While the exact causes of macular degeneration are unclear to researchers, we know this is a common condition in patients who are aging. 

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

The symptoms you experience will depend on the type of macular degeneration you have. We generally see two types of AMD at Infinity Retina:

• Non-Neovascular (Dry) AMD, marked by pale, dry, yellow lesions under the retina called “drusen.” These lesions are harmless by themselves, but can progress into atrophy (or wasting) and cause significant loss of central vision.
• Neovascular (Wet) AMD, marked by the appearance of abnormal blood vessels under the retina that might bleed or leak, causing blind spots, blurry vision and distortion of straight lines. If allowed to progress, wet AMD can lead to scarring on the outer retina which causes permanent loss of your central vision.

Am I at risk for age-related macular degeneration?

Risk for AMD increases with age in any patient, so it’s important to stay vigilant and have regular eye exams as you get older. Some additional risks have been identified as well, including:

• Family history of age-related vision loss
• High blood pressure
• Consistent and excessive exposure to the sun
• Lack of nutrients in your diet
• Smoking
• Obesity

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

While AMD cannot be fully cured, Dr. Parvus can help you manage your symptoms and preserve your vision after a diagnosis. Macular degeneration treatment breakthroughs have been made in recent years in the form of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) medications. These medications control the rate at which abnormal blood cells grow in the eye, preserving vision in patients with wet AMD. During treatment, Dr. Parvus will administer VEGF via injection after giving local anaesthetic eye drops to numb your eye.

If your dry AMD has resulted in scarring and the loss of central vision, there is unfortunately no way to fully reverse this damage. If you are diagnosed with dry AMD, Dr. Parvus may discuss nutritional supplements that can help prevent the progression of your condition.