Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a concerning yet common vision condition that primarily affects older adults. It can cause a blurred spot in a person’s central vision, which can interfere with activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
Optometrists are primary eye care professionals who can diagnose, monitor, and manage age-related macular degeneration. But if an eye disease requires more specialized care, an optometrist can also refer patients to an ophthalmologist. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor, eye care specialist, and surgeon.
To detect and treat AMD early, see your optometrist regularly for a comprehensive eye exam.
What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina at the back of the eye. In people with AMD, waste collects in this area, leading to a blurry spot in the centre of a person’s vision. AMD is a significant cause of vision loss in North American adults aged 50 and older.
Types of AMD
There are 2 types of age-related macular degeneration:
- Dry AMD: Accounting for about 90% of AMD cases, dry AMD develops slowly and involves the thinning of macular tissues. This degeneration can eventually progress to the wet form of AMD.
- Wet AMD: Less common yet more severe, wet AMD happens when blood vessels beneath the macula leak. Wet AMD gets worse faster.
Risk Factors
You are more at risk of developing AMD if you are older, have a family history of AMD, have cardiovascular disease, smoke, or have prolonged exposure to UV light.
However, you can take steps to reduce your risks, such as:
- Healthy habits: Quit smoking, eat healthily, stay active, and keep your blood pressure within a healthy range.
- Sun protection: Remember to wear sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection when you go outdoors (even when it’s cloudy).
- Diet: Minimize fatty foods and consume antioxidants and nutrients like vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Get regular eye exams: An optometrist can detect AMD in a routine eye exam before you even notice symptoms, so keep to your recommended eye exam frequency.
Symptoms
AMD can be asymptomatic in its early stages. Over time, symptoms may include:
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Dark spots or gaps in vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy
- Significant difficulty performing tasks that require sharp vision, such as reading
Untreated AMD can progress to the point of total vision loss. However, there is often no pain associated with AMD.
An Optometrist Can Help
Optometrists are often the first point of contact when it comes to eye health. With advancements in eye care technology, optometrists are equipped to identify AMD and effectively guide patients.
Diagnosis with OCT Imaging
Optometrists can detect AMD using optical coherence tomography (OCT). This imaging technology scans the retina and optic nerve, providing pictures of the retina’s multiple layers. While your pupils will likely be dilated, OCT imaging is a contactless procedure, and nothing touches the eye.
Managing AMD
If you have AMD, your optometrist may provide you with:
- An Amsler grid: This is a visual tool you can use every day to self-monitor your vision. Hold the grid at reading distance and check that you can see all four corners, all grid lines, that all grid lines are straight and clear, and that there are no dark or empty areas. If you can’t see one of these elements, make an appointment with your optometrist.
- Magnifiers: These vision aid devices won’t restore sight, but can help with daily activities by improving near vision.
Other treatment options for AMD include dietary supplements in earlier stages of AMD and injections in later stages of AMD. Your optometrist may refer you to an ophthalmologist if you require more extensive intervention, such as surgery.
Optometrists vs. Ophthalmologists
Optometrists are primary eye care providers who perform comprehensive eye exams, detect conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and help monitor their progression. They play a key role in the early diagnosis and ongoing management of many eye diseases.
Ophthalmologists, on the other hand, are medical doctors who specialize in eye and vision care after completing medical school and a residency in ophthalmology. They are trained to provide both medical and surgical treatment for complex eye conditions, including advanced stages of AMD.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Because age-related macular degeneration often doesn’t show noticeable symptoms in its early stages, regular eye exams with your optometrist are important for early detection. Once AMD is identified, you and your eye care team can take proactive steps to monitor it and treat it.
According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, adults aged 20–64 should receive an eye exam every other year. Older adults aged 65 and over should get an exam every year, as should any adult with diabetes.
Due for your next eye exam? Book an appointment with Calgary Trail Vision Centre. With a combination of modern technology and old-fashioned care and respect, our team is excited to support you and your vision needs.