Background
The macula is in the back of the eye and helps us see fine details. As the aging process occurs, there are a lot of changes that occur in the body. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can affect people as they age. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50. AMD affects central vision, which is needed for reading, recognizing faces, and other detailed tasks.
There are two different forms of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD is the most common and makes up about 80% of all AMD cases. Wet AMD is less common but can cause central vision loss more rapidly than dry AMD. In wet AMD, there are new blood vessels being formed that leak blood or other fluids that cause swelling that can damage the back of the eye. The dry form can potentially convert into the wet form of AMD.
Signs & Symptoms
The macula slowly deteriorates, and the retinal cells are not renewed. Some AMD early signs include:
- Curved or wavy lines in vision
- Colors being dulled or changed
- Blank spots in vision
- Needing additional light to read or see properly
Risk Factors
If you have any of these symptoms, follow up with an eye doctor. Known risk factors of AMD include:
- Immediate family member previously diagnosed with AMD
- Prolonged sun exposure to the eyes
- Consumption of meat, butter, cheese, or fried foods
- Overweight
- Cigarette smoking
- More females are diagnosed than male
Due to the nearly 20 million Americans currently living with either form of AMD, significant research has been dedicated to the treatment and prevention of AMD (Center for Disease Control, 2024). Beginning in the 90’s, a series of groundbreaking trials were conducted to determine which groups of people are most likely to develop AMD and what supplements to take to slow progression of the disease. Thes studies, called AREDS and AREDS2, determined a combination of vitamins and supplements can reduce the risk of AMD getting worse in some cases if taken daily (National Eye Institute, 2020).
Treatment
Wet AMD:
Anti-VEGF medicines are commonly used to treat wet AMD. They can reduce abnormal blood-vessel growth and leakage. Treatment response varies, and continued monitoring is important.
Treatment may involve repeated eye injections and follow-up visits. Your ophthalmologist will recommend a schedule based on your condition and response.
The research team can discuss currently listed wet AMD studies, their purpose, visit requirements, risks, and eligibility criteria. Investigational treatments may or may not provide a benefit.
Dry AMD:
Prescription treatments are available for geographic atrophy, an advanced form of dry AMD. These treatments may slow the growth of geographic atrophy lesions. Treatment suitability, risks, and injection schedules depend on the diagnosis and the medicine prescribed.
Ask the research team about the currently listed dry AMD study and whether a screening conversation may be appropriate for you.