Macular Degeneration in Washington, DC
Age-related macular degeneration, also known as AMD, is an eye disease affecting a specific part of the retina, known as the macula. It’s the leading cause of vision loss in older people.
Types of AMD
There are two types of AMD:
Dry AMD accounts for about 80% of people diagnosed with AMD. This condition is caused by age-related thinning of the macula and the growth of small clumps of protein.
Wet AMD is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina. The vessels leak fluid and blood, which scar the macula.
Signs and Symptoms of AMD
AMD causes loss of central vision, which can result in:
- Blurred vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy
- Inability to pick out fine details
- A dark area in the center of your vision field
Risk Factors for AMD
You are at greater risk of developing AMD if you:
- Smoke
- Eat a high saturated fat diet
- Are overweight or obese
- Are over 50 years old
- Have heart disease
- have high blood pressure
- Have high cholesterol
- Have a family history of AMD
What You Can Do for AMD
Eating a diet high in nutrients to support your eyes is important. You should eat a diet high in:
- Fish
- Dark leafy greens
- Yellow fruits and vegetables
How Your Eye Doctor Can Treat AMD
Currently, there is no treatment for dry AMD, however, there is evidence to suggest that some nutritional supplements can help slow the progression of the disease. The recommended vitamins and supplements include:
- Vitamin C (500 mg)
- Vitamin E (400 IU)
- Lutein (10 mg)
- Zeaxanthin (2 mg)
- Zinc (80 mg)
- Copper (2 mg)
Your eye doctor can treat wet AMD and may recommend Anti-VEGF drug therapy, or laser surgery, which help to reduce abnormal blood vessels and slow leakage of fluid.