Two Different Types
Dry AMD is the more prevalent type of AMD. Blurred vision is often the first symptom of the disease, although it can also occur later. When the condition begins, the central part of the retina becomes damaged, causing blurry vision. Light can help to reduce the blurring, but eventually the person will lose sight in that eye. In advanced cases, both eyes are affected.
Wet AMD is less frequent. When blood vessels leak fluid, it collects and raises the macula, distorts vision. The first sign many people perceive is that lines begin to appear curved. Small blind spots can also occur and cause a lack of central vision.
Overview
Age-related maculopathy (ARM) is the leading cause for visual impairment in people aged 65 and above. Macular degeneration causes damage to the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. People with AMD lose their ability to distinguish colors and contrast, and they may experience blurred vision, distorted vision, blind spots, and difficulty reading.
Treatment
While there is presently no cure for AMD, a number of treatments can help slow its progression.
- Avastin, Lucenti, Eylea injections are commonly used to treat wet AMD. Photodynamic therapy and thermal laser treatments are also used.
- Dry AMD is treated with ongoing clinical trials. Few treatment options exist today.
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