Age-Related Macular Degeneration Takes Centerstage

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In stark contrast to glaucoma and cataract, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) diminishes sight in a dramatic way: It affects the central vision. Although people with AMD rarely go blind because of it, many find it difficult to read, drive and perform other daily functions that require central vision. The number of cases of the disorder increases substantially among individuals over age 60.

“About 5 percent of the 34 million adults over age 65 — or 1.7 million of us — have some degree of vision loss because of this disease,” said Dr. Nussenblatt. “AMD causes marked alterations that affect, almost in a diabolic way, our ability to see. The rest of the eye can be totally normal. AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in the United States.”

In wet AMD, new blood vessels begin to develop behind the retina. These new vessels tend to be very fragile and often become leaky. The blood and other fluid they leak causes rapid deterioration of the macula. Although only 10 percent of people with AMD have this form, wet AMD accounts for 90 percent of all blindness from AMD.

People with dry AMD will probably not notice any changes in their vision. Over time, a blind spot may begin to develop in their central vision. People with wet AMD, however, may begin to see the blind spot quickly. In addition, wet AMD can cause straight lines to appear wavy. During your eye exam, your eye care professional may give you a special grid to stare at; how this grid looks to you may help the doctor to diagnose AMD. Also, your doctor will look for yellow deposits called drusen in the retina. The presence of drusen is an early sign of AMD.

courtesty: www-nih.gov.htm

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