Macular Degeneration (AMD) - Causes, Symptoms and Cure

Macula is small area located in the centre of the eye. It is an important structure of the retina as it is responsible for the central vision and fine details of the objects in front of the eye. It is also responsible for the color vision.

Age related macular degeneration (AMD) – the cells of the macula become damaged slowly as the age progresses.

AMD is of two types

1. Dry AMD - The cells in the macula gradually degenerates and there is gradual loss of the central vision, the early symptoms include blurred vision followed by complete loss of the central vision.
2. Wet AMD - in wet AMD the loss of vision is very fast. In this type of AMD, an abnormal blood vessel of the retina grows under macula. These blood vessels tend to break down very often that damage the macula. Macula damage in the WET AMD is faster than that in dry AMD.

Causes of AMD

Age related AMD as the name suggest, is caused by the aging process. However there are some risk factors that may increase the chances of developing AMD in some individuals. These include:

• Hypertension
• Family history of AMD
• Smoking
• Obesity

Symptoms of AMD

Dry AMD –

• Blurred vision
• Blind spot in the middle of the eye

In wet AMD distorted vision as the blood vessels the leak in the eye raising the pressure in the eye.

• People with AMD may need more light to read and write
• Diminished color vision

In advanced AMD there is complete loss of the central vision

Diagnosis for AMD

• Certain tests that may detect the AMD include
• Visual acuity test
• Dilated Eye examination

Treatment for AMD

• Laser therapy
• Low vision aids like special lenses
• Surgery

Eyecare

• If you have genetic history of macular degeneration or initial stage of macular degeneration below mention points may help you
• Increase in Vitamin intake especially Vitamin C, E, and Zinc
• Weight control
• Smoking cessation
• Controlled blood pressure

Contact Killeen Eyecare Center for diagnosis and consultation for Macular Degeneration. Killeen Eyecare Center serves Killeen, Harker Heights and Fort Hood areas in Texas.