Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is an eye condition that causes gradual vision loss. In its early stages, the condition often produces few or no noticeable symptoms.
AMD has become an increasingly common eye condition that affects an estimated 2.5 million Canadians, with the majority being age 55 or over. Unfortunately, with Canada’s growing aging population, this number is only expected to rise in the coming years.
How is macular degeneration detected? What are some early signs? When should you have an eye exam? Also, what treatments are available?
This guide answers all these questions and much more!
Key Takeaways
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AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina, and is classified into two forms: dry and wet.
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Early warning signs of AMD can be easily missed.
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Blurred or wavy central vision, trouble seeing in low light, or seeing faded colors are the first warning signs of early AMD.
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Routine comprehensive eye exams are the most effective way to detect AMD in its early stages.
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Diagnostic tools like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Amsler grids help catch AMD before any noticeable symptoms.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration is a progressive age-related eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina, responsible for sharp central vision.
Increased age, exposure to UV sunlight, smoking, and other health conditions (like diabetes and high blood pressure) as well as a family history of macular degeneration can all increase our risk for developing macular degeneration. AMD is classified into two main types: Dry AMD and Wet AMD.
In early macular degeneration there can be a buildup of drusen (yellow deposits of proteins and lipids) underneath the retina, which affects central vision. Drusen can continue to accumulate in number and size and result in significant vision loss - these examples are of Dry AMD. In other cases, abnormal blood vessels can form in the macaula and result in significant vision changes- this is Wet AMD.
Dry AMD is the most common and earliest form of AMD. Dry AMD often develops slowly and in about 15-20% of cases will change into wet AMD.
Dry AMD vs Wet AMD: What’s the Difference?
The table below outlines the key differences between the two.
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Features |
Dry AMD |
Wet AMD |
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Frequency |
~80–90% of cases |
~10–20% of cases |
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Progression |
Slow, gradual vision loss |
Sudden, often more severe vision loss |
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Cause |
Breakdown of macular tissue |
Abnormal blood vessel growth |
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Detection |
Often found in routine eye exams |
Often discovered after noticeable vision change |
|
Treatments |
Supplements, lifestyle changes |
Injections, laser therapy |
Why Early Detection of AMD Matters
AMD doesn’t happen overnight. It slowly forms over time, without causing pain or immediate alarm. Early detection is valuable, treatments can be more effective during earlier stages. So keeping an “eye” out for early warning signs and getting regular eye exams, especially over the age of 50, is beneficial. Unfortunately, once significant vision loss has occurred from AMD, there can be treatments available, however, there are no cures.
Early Symptoms Are Easy to Miss
The first warning signs for early-stage AMD can be subtle. Symptoms may also appear in just one eye first, forcing the other healthy eye to compensate for the vision loss, making symptoms appear less severe.
In fact, many patients diagnosed with early-stage Dry AMD often state no vision problems at all and usually find out about this condition during a routine dilated eye exam.
However, while subtle, early symptoms do exist. Seeing words or objects missing or grayed out in the middle of your vision or seeing sentences or lines bent or distorted are symptoms that need to be assessed.
These Warning Signs Shouldn’t be Ignored
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Blurry or distorted central vision, especially when reading, focusing, driving, or watching TV.
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Difficulty recognizing faces right away.
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Seeing straight lines appear bent or wavy (a key red flag).
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Signs of Drusen (microscopic yellow deposits under the retina). Usually detected during an eye exam.
Diagnostic Tools That Catch AMD Early
By far the best way to catch AMD early is by booking routine dilated eye exams at a reputable optometrist near you. These thorough eye health assessments not only ensure you’re seeing your best but can also reveal signs of eye disease or conditions like AMD.
At Insight Optometry, our adult eye exams include Optomap retinal imaging, eye pressure check, and external and internal eye evaluations through a slit-lamp microscope, to help reveal drusen and any abnormal changes to the macula.
We also offer comprehensive eye exams using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools like OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) to help screen, diagnose, and monitor disease of the macula, optic nerve head, retina, and cornea.
The Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer 3 is another incredible diagnostic tool that helps our optometrist get accurate, timely measurements of your entire visual field, including central vision (straight ahead) and side vision (peripheral).
By having a complete picture of your eye, an optometrist can provide insight and information so you can make more informed decisions about what approaches and treatments would be most effective.
For example, in the early stages of Dry AMD, nutrition supplements (AREDS) and lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, eating more leafy, colored vegetables, and wearing full-time sunglasses, can often be enough to keep deterioration in check. Other treatments could include MacuMira treatments.
In Wet AMD cases,referral to a local ophthalmologist for possible injection treatments are often recommended to stop blood vessel growth.
When to Book Your Next Eye Exam?
If you are past the half-century mark, you should get your eyes checked regularly, especially if you have a family history of AMD, are a smoker, or live with high blood pressure.
You should also get checked immediately if you notice:
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You have distortions in your central vision
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You are having difficulty adapting to low-light environments
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Your vision seems blurry, or you see dark or gray spots
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You see faded-looking colors
Comprehensive Eye Exam Services Near You
Comprehensive eye exams are the only sure-fire way to check all aspects of your vision and ocular health. Book one today or call (902) 422-4444 for further details.
FAQs
Q1) What are the first signs of macular degeneration?
The first signs of AMD are often subtle, such as having difficulty reading due to blurred central vision, having difficulty seeing in low light, or difficulty in recognizing faces.
Q2) Is it possible to have AMD without symptoms?
Yes. Many people with early AMD show no symptoms. A dilated eye exam is often the only way to detect it.
Q3) How is macular degeneration diagnosed?
Through dilated eye exams, OCT imaging, and other advanced diagnostic tools, doctors can identify AMD before symptoms arise.
Q4) What is drusen, and why does it matter?
Drusen are microscopic yellow deposits composed of proteins and lipids that form under the retina. Their presence can signal early-stage AMD.
Q5) Can AMD be cured?
Unfortunately, as of yet, there is no cure for AMD. However, early detection can help slow progression.
