Macular Degeneration

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a long-term condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed, and color vision. When the macula is damaged, it leads to a gradual or sudden loss of central vision, making everyday tasks like reading, recognizing faces, and driving more difficult. AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 60 and typically presents in two forms: dry AMD and wet AMD.

Dry AMD: Gradual Changes

Dry AMD develops slowly and is more common than the wet form. It occurs when light-sensitive cells beneath the macula break down, forming yellow deposits called drusen. As drusen accumulate, they interfere with clear central vision.

Symptoms of advanced dry AMD may include:

• Needing more light for reading or close work
• Blurry or faded print and colors
• Hazy vision
• A growing central blind spot

Wet AMD: Rapid Progression

Wet AMD is a more serious form that can cause rapid central vision loss. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels, triggered by a protein called VEGF-A, form under the retina and leak fluid or blood, damaging the macula.

Wet AMD may present with:

• Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
• Objects looking smaller or farther away
• Crooked door frames or window edges
• A sudden or increasing blind spot in the center of your vision

If you’ve been diagnosed with AMD in one eye, your risk of developing it in the other eye is about 50% within five years. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are essential to protecting your remaining vision.

Managing AMD with Treatment

While there is no cure for AMD, early detection and treatment can help manage progression, especially in wet AMD. Injections of medications like LUCENTIS® (ranibizumab) may slow or reduce vision loss by stopping abnormal blood vessel growth. Treatment plans are individualized, and outcomes vary.

At PremierVision Laser Center, Inc., we use advanced imaging and diagnostics to monitor AMD and guide your care. Regular follow-ups help us detect changes early and adjust treatment as needed.

Monitoring With the Amsler Grid

The Amsler Grid is a simple tool for checking central vision changes at home. To use it:

• Place the grid in a spot you’ll see daily (e.g., fridge, bathroom mirror)
• Wear your reading glasses and hold the grid about 14 inches away
• Test one eye at a time, focusing on the center dot

Ask yourself:

• Do all four corners and sides of the square appear?
• Are all the smaller boxes complete and visible?
• Do any lines appear wavy, missing, or distorted?

If you notice any changes, contact us right away. An in-office evaluation within a few days can help determine if your AMD is progressing.