Aged-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month
February is known for hearts and candy, but in the world of vision care, the month is dedicated to educating the public about Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
AMD is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision that we use to read, see fine details in the world around us, and the faces of our loved ones. As people age, the risk of developing AMD increases, making it crucial to address this condition promptly and effectively. In its early stages, AMD may show no outward signs or symptoms, meaning that it is important for people over 50 to schedule annual eye exams that include dilation.
“Macular degeneration is a complex eye disease. It is being heavily studied by researchers, with new breakthroughs every day. While there is currently no cure, there are treatment options that may prevent or slow the progression of the disease. At Vance Thompson Vision, equipping individuals with knowledge about the disease starts that process,” said Jed Assam, MD, a retinal specialist at Vance Thompson Vision.
Vance Thompson Vision remains at the forefront of AMD care, prioritizing detection, education and advanced treatment options. The first line of detection is an eye exam to determine the presence of drusen—tiny yellow deposits in the retina that are a common early sign of AMD. In addition to poor quality central vision, other symptoms may include:
Blurry or fuzzy vision
Difficulty recognizing familiar faces
Straight lines appearing wavy
A specific blurry or blind spot when looking ahead
Trouble transitioning from well-lit areas to dimly-lit areas
Dr. Assam stresses that while there is no current cure for AMD, the disease rarely leads to total blindness, especially if patients follow a treatment plan supported by a retinal specialist. Some risk factors for the disease include increased age, a family history of macular degeneration, smoking, high blood pressure, and a diet high in saturated fat.
“There are two main types of macular degeneration that can progress to a loss of central vision. This includes a dry form which progresses more slowly and a wet form that can progress more quickly. We are in an era where treatments exist for both types and more knowledge is generated daily,” said Dr. Assam.
Dry AMD affects about 90% of patients with AMD. This is a slow, progressive form of macular degeneration occurring over the years that results in a buildup of deposits called “drusen” in the macula which, over time, weaken the retina and result in vision change. Dry AMD does not affect your peripheral vision, which can be disorienting to patients.
A more rapidly acting type of macular degeneration, wet AMD, is characterized by the growth of small blood vessels under the macula. These new vessels can leak fluid and cause sudden vision loss. Knowing the warning signs and getting regular screening is important to help reduce your risk of vision loss from this type of macular degeneration. With early detection from screening it is possible to receive treatment that can prevent vision loss from wet AMD.
“Education is critical to individually addressing macular degeneration. Although a universally progressive form of vision loss, it impacts each person in unique ways. Getting people informed of the options and resources available near them is a core aspect of moving forward together in providing the best care possible.” Dr. Jed Assam.
Honor Age-related Macular Degeneration this February by scheduling a routine eye exam with your local eye doctor and support those suffering from the disease. For more information, contact Vance Thompson Vision at 605-371-7121 or email melissa.palmer@vancethompsonvision.com