Age-related macular degeneration (or AMD) occurs in two forms:

Wet: While less common, this form is more aggressive in its development to severe central vision loss. This occurs when abnormal blood vessels begin to grow underneath the retina (known as choroidal neovascularization or CNV) and tend to be very fragile, often leaking blood or fluid. Periodic eye examinations are very important for patients at risk for CNV. Once this has developed in one eye, the other eye is at relatively high risk as well.

Dry: The more common of the two types, this is a slower progression of vision loss. The light-sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down, diminishing central vision. Dry AMD often occurs in just one eye at first. Later, the other eye can be affected. While the cause of dry AMD is unknown, it can advance and cause vision loss.

The cause of macular degeneration remains unknown, but the primary risk factor for its development is age. Although AMD may occur during middle age, studies show that people over age 60 are clearly at greater risk than other age groups. Fortunately, neither dry nor wet AMD causes eye pain, but blurred vision will occur and the symptoms may worsen the quality of life by making reading, driving, and facial recognition difficult. Other symptoms may include decreased night vision, a decrease in the intensity or brightness of colors, increase in the haziness of overall vision. The most common symptom in wet macular degeneration is straight lines appearing crooked or wavy.

A thorough examination by an eye doctor is the best way to determine if you have macular degeneration or if you are at risk for developing the condition. The exam begins by testing your visual acuity or the sharpness of your vision. If you are diagnosed with wet AMD, there are options for treatment. Wet AMD can be treated with laser surgery, photodynamic therapy, and injections into the eye. However, none of these treatments are a permanent cure. The disease and loss of vision may continue to grow despite treatment. Unfortunately, there is no current treatment to reverse dry macular degeneration.

To help reduce your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration:

• Maintain a healthy diet high in green, leafy vegetables and fish
• Refrain from smoking
• Keep blood pressure and weight at normal levels
• Engage in regular, moderate exercise