What is Age Related Macular Degeneration? (AMD)

At the practice, we have changed our business. We only allow patients to drop in for frames or contact lense enquiries if they ring and make an appointment first. This is because we want to give you premium eyecare at an affordable cost. 

There are also health conditions we want to make you aware of. Because, stylish frames won’t hide degenerative diseases. Age-Related Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in the UK and you may not know what AMD is. 

AMD is an eye condition that causes changes to the macula; this is the central part of the back of the eye which may result in loss of central vision. The common initial symptom of AMD is either blurred, distorted central vision or a loss in colour contrast. 

Contrast sensitivity allows us to recognise shades of the same colour, like finding a black wallet in a black purse. This may progress to a blank or dark patch in the centre of your vision. Patients notice difficulties with driving, reading and detailed work. 

AMD can affect both eyes. One eye can develop AMD first which can lead to a delayed diagnosis, as the good eye compensates for the affected one. This means AMD patients may not notice the problem at first. AMD normally occurs in people over 60 years old but it may develop earlier than this. 

There are two main forms of AMD: 

Dry AMD is the more common type of AMD, at around 75 - 90% of cases. It is irreversible and is mainly characterised by thinning of the macular layers at the back of the eye. There is no cure, but treatment can slow progression.  

However, in advanced Dry AMD, central vision loss can be severe. An individual who has dry AMD can also develop wet AMD, which may require treatment. 

Those at most risk are: 

People aged over 50

Caucasian adults 

Smokers

Obesity and having blue eyes are linked to increased risk 

We can diagnose AMD patients and refer them to an eye doctor; your specialist can also let you know if there are studies you can take part in to help towards finding treatment. There is support available for those living with AMD including help with low vision and lifestyle changes. 

These are what you can do to prevent AMD: 

Eat oily fish, fruit and vegetables

 Some supplements such as I-Caps or Macushield may help 

Quit smoking 

Please speak to us if you need more information about AMD. We’re finding out more about this eye condition and what we can do to help you.