Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Many eye diseases don’t show any symptoms until after they have already caused permanent vision loss. By undergoing regular eye exams we can help catch problems early and begin treatment as soon as possible, thereby reducing the risk of vision loss.

During your visit we will examine your eyes for diseases including age related macular degeneration (AMD). We will also offer you educational information that can help you reduce your risk of developing eye related diseases in the future.

What is Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

The macula is the part of your retina responsible for your central vision. Age related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when small deposits called drusen form in the macula or the blood vessels in your macula start to deteriorate due to age. Age related macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in Canada.

What Are The Types of AMD?

AMD is divided into dry and wet. While there is currently no cure for AMD a variety of lifestyle changes and treatment options are available depending on how advanced the disease is.

You can reduce your chances of getting AMD by scheduling regular eye exams and making a few simple lifestyle changes. If you already have AMD you can slow its progression, but it is always better to avoid getting the condition altogether.

Make sure you get your eyes checked regularly as early detection of AMD is key. Once you start experiencing symptoms you may already be at risk for permanent vision loss.

Dry AMD Treatment

There is currently no treatment for dry AMD. However, your optometrist may recommend you make some lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking or losing weight. He or she may also recommend you eat more of certain foods so that you can get specific nutrients and help slow the progression of your AMD.

Your doctor may recommend you start vitamin therapy. Recent research has shown that there are several vitamins and minerals that can help delay the progression of AMD. These include:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Beta – Carotene
• Zinc
• Copper
• Lutein
• Zeaxanthin
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids

However, if you are or have been a smoker your optometrist will likely recommend you avoid Beta-Carotene, as it can increase your chances of developing lung cancer.

Wet AMD Treatment

Wet AMD is also known as neovascular AMD. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels start to grow underneath your retina. There are several treatments available for advanced neovascular AMD that can potentially prevent further vision loss. These treatments include:

• Eye injections to inhibit new irregular blood vessel growth.
• Laser surgery to target and destroy irregular blood vessels.
• A combination of injections and laser therapy. Once irregular blood vessels have absorbed the drug in the eye an ophthalmologist uses a laser to seal them off.

Consult with your optometrist to determine which treatment is right for you.