Common Signs of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the retina’s center. The retina is responsible for transmitting clear images to your brain, and AMD can cause blurred vision and blindness if it’s not treated.

The disease can be classified into two–dry and wet. Dry AMD is the most common form and develops slowly over time. Wet AMD happens when abnormal blood vessels develop underneath the retina and leak fluid or blood. This type of macular degeneration is more serious and can lead to rapid vision loss. Dry AMD progresses slowly and causes gradual vision loss. Wet AMD is more severe and can cause rapid vision loss. Fortunately, there are treatments available for wet AMD that can help slow down its progression and preserve some level of vision. It is crucial to visit an eye doctor in Castle Rock, CO, for regular eye assessment.

What are the Age-Related Macular Degeneration Symptoms?

Getting Macular degeneration treatment near Castle Pines can slow the progression and preserve your vision. Some of the AMD symptoms to watch out for include the following:

• Blurred vision

Blurred vision is a common symptom of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This can make it difficult to read or see fine details. Sometimes, people with AMD may also see a dark or empty area in the center of their vision. If you are experiencing any changes in your vision, you must see an eye doctor for a comprehensive exam. Early detection and treatment of AMD can preserve your vision.

• Distorted vision

Distortion occurs when the blood vessels in your retina grow abnormally and leak fluid, causing swelling beneath it. This can make your vision blurry or distorted. You may also notice that straight lines appear wavy. This symptom is usually gradual and may not be noticed at first. But as AMD progresses, it can cause serious problems with your vision. If you have distorted vision, it may not be easy to read or recognize faces. You may also have trouble driving or doing other activities that require clear vision.

• Loss of central vision

Central vision is needed for driving, reading, or recognizing faces. AMD affects the macula, responsible for sharp, clear central vision. The advancement of the disease may lead to the loss of central vision.

• Colors appear dull or faded.

As AMD progresses, colors may also appear less vibrant. The colors around us are bright, but when we look at them closely, they seem duller than usual because our retinas aren’t working properly; this makes everything look washed out.

• Abnormality where straight lines appear wavy

If you’re looking at an object whose lines appear wavy, it’s likely to be an age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patient.

• Inability to see in dim light

One of the most common symptoms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an inability to see in dim light. If you are experiencing this symptom, visit an eye doctor for a diagnosis of AMD and begin treatment to help improve your vision.

• Dark Spots

As we age, it’s not uncommon for dark spots to appear in our field of vision. While these spots are typically harmless, they can signify age-related macular degeneration (AMD). If you have dark spots on your eyes, they are called drusen. Drusen are deposits of protein and other substances that form between the retina and choroid. They can be small or large, but they usually appear in clusters.

Aftercare Tips For Age-Related Macular Degeneration

After being diagnosed, getting age-related macular degeneration treatment in Castle Rock, CO, is important.

There are three primary options for treating age-related macular degeneration: vitamin therapy, injections for the eye, and laser surgery, and the eye doctor will choose the suitable option based on the severity of the macular degeneration.

Furthermore, you need to care for your eyes after the treatment, and here are some tips:

• Follow your treatment plan: Be sure to take any medication prescribed by your doctor and attend all scheduled appointments.
• Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of developing AMD and worsens the condition.
• Eating a healthy diet can help protect your vision. Foods like leafy greens, salmon, and avocados are especially good for eye health.
• Exercise regularly: Exercise helps improve blood flow to the eyes and can also reduce stress, which can harm vision.
• Wearing sunglasses and a hat outdoors can help reduce your risk of developing AMD or worsening the condition.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Founders Eyecare for more information about AMD treatment options.