AMD affects central vision: the ability to read, see faces, drive, and discern small details, such as salt crystals in a shaker. There are two forms -- dry and wet. While the dry form is far more common, the wet form can cause more severe vision loss.

Although there currently is no cure for AMD, new treatments may slow its progression.

Dry Macular Degeneration consists of deposits in the macula, or central retina, called drusen. Although drusen can progress to a more severe AMD, the disease generally advances slowly.

In Wet Macular Degeneration, new blood vessels grow and bleed under the retina, lifting it up like the roots of a tree beneath a sidewalk. Vision loss can be sudden and significant.

Risk Factors

AMD risk factors include smoking, family history, advancing age, and an elevated inflammatory protein in the blood. Cardiovascular factors such as hypertension, obesity and high cholesterol also appear to be associated with AMD. Significant exposure to sunlight may also increase risk, so UV sunglasses and wide-brim hats are recommended.

To screen for macular degeneration, regular dilated eye examinations are indicated. Patients found to be high-risk or showing early signs of AMD can then monitor changes in vision at home using an Amsler grid.

Treatment Options

There are no prescription drugs or surgical treatment for Dry AMD. Because the progression of the disease is generally slow, ophthalmologists recommend counseling in adaptive techniques by an optometrist specializing in low vision.

There are several treatment options for Wet AMD, but results vary and may be limited. The latest method, intravitreal injections, target the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eye. Retina specialists have found that inejctions of Lucentis or Avastin may preserve sight or even reverse vision loss.

Treating the Whole Patient

It is rare to go completely blind from AMD. In fact, most AMD patients retain good peripheral vision and continue to live independently, assisted by a variety of optical aids. Large-print books and periodicals, transportation services, computer programs, closed-circuit television and occupational therapy are most helpful. AMD support groups for patients and caregivers and county associations for the blind are good resources.

Armstrong Colt George Ophthalmology provides quality eye care in their Abington, PA and Hatboro, PA offices, serving patients from Montgomery County, PA, Bucks County, PA and Philadelphia, PA.