Age-Related Macular Degeneration

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition that happens when there is damage to the macula (the part of the retina that allows you to see objects clearly.) AMD affects the central vision, so say you are looking at a clock, you may not be able to see the hands on the clock, but you could see the numbers going around the clock.

What are the 2 types of AMD?

Dry AMD happens when the macula begins to thin and tiny clumps of protein, known as drusen, begin to grow. Central vision slowly begins to decrease.

Wet AMD happens when abnormal blood vessels grow underneath the retina. These blood vessels can leak blood or other fluids which can scar the macula causing the central vision to decrease faster than with Dry AMD.

You are more at risk for AMD if you:

• Eat a diet high in saturated fat
• Are overweight
• Smoke Cigarettes
• Are over the age of 50
• Have high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Have a family history of AMD
• Have a heart disease
• Have high cholesterol levels
• Are Caucasian

How is AMD treated?

Currently, there is no treatment for Dry AMD. For Wet AMD, there are a few options for treatment. There are medications called anti-VEGF drugs which help to reduce the number of abnormal blood vessels in the retina and can slow any leaking from blood vessels.

What to do if you think you have AMD?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of AMD, please call Piedmont Eye Associates at (864) 583-5312 today to set up an appointment with one of our trained ophthalmologists to handle your eye care needs.