Age-related macular degeneration is a common cause of sight loss in people over fifty. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision.
Types of AMD
There are two main forms, dry and wet, which behave differently. Both can affect reading, driving, and recognising faces.
- Dry AMD develops slowly as cells in the macula wear out.
- Wet AMD happens when fragile new vessels leak or bleed under the macula.
- Dry changes can sometimes progress to wet disease.
- Peripheral vision usually remains, so eyes are never fully dark from AMD alone.
- Family history, smoking, and age increase risk.
Monitoring and treatment
Early detection, especially of wet AMD, is crucial. Regular checks and home monitoring help spot sudden changes quickly.
- Anti-VEGF injections treat wet AMD and can stabilise or improve vision.
- There is currently no cure for dry AMD, but magnifiers and lighting help.
- Stopping smoking and eating a balanced diet support macular health.
- Amsler grid self-tests can reveal new distortion or missing patches.
- Low-vision services offer aids and training to maintain independence.
