Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex chronic eye disorder affecting central vision that can significantly alter your life. Here, Dr. Emily Denton, OD, MBA, FAAO, known as “Dr D” on her YouTube channel Eye School with Dr D, answers some frequently asked questions about AMD’s causes, warning signs, symptoms, and risk factors, along with how to avoid further vision loss.*

Causes of AMD

There are actually two kinds of AMD, Denton says: dry and wet. Dry (atrophic) AMD occurs when fatty deposits called drusen, thought to be from deteriorating tissue, develop on the macula, the part of your retina that is responsible for central vision, or what’s directly in front of your eye. This drusen buildup can cause a bulge in the retina at the back of your eye, interfering with its “architecture” and distorting your vision.

Wet (neovascular) AMD develops from dry AMD if left untreated. “It’s generally caused by abnormal blood vessels that grow and leak fluid or blood into the macula,” she explains, which also interferes with its proper function.

What are the symptoms of AMD?

According to Denton, symptoms of wet and dry AMD generally include any or a combination of:

• Visual distortions (straight lines look wavy)
• Reduced central vision in one or both eyes
• Blurriness of printed words
• Difficulty recognizing faces
• Reduced contrast sensitivity and/or color vision
• Increased difficulty adapting to low light (such as when entering a dimly lit room)
• The need for brighter light for close-up work
• A well-defined blurry or blind spot in your central visual field

You should visit your eye doctor immediately, Denton warns, if you notice changes in your central vision, or if your ability to see colors and fine detail becomes impaired, particularly if you’re over the age of 60. See visual examples of symptoms here.

What are the risk factors for developing AMD?

Common factors that increase the risk of developing AMD are:

• Age of 55 or older
• Family history and genetics
• Race (Caucasian, especially with light-colored eyes)
• Current smoker or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Obesity
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

Will I go blind from AMD?

AMD only affects central vision, not peripheral (side) vision, so doesn’t usually cause total blindness, though it can significantly alter and restrict your daily activities. AMD can also develop concurrently with glaucoma, however, which does affect peripheral vision, so taking preventative measures for both is essential for preserving your sight. 

What can I do to prevent vision loss from AMD?

Steps that you can take to either prevent developing AMD or avoid further vision loss if you already have it, are the same:

• Get routine eye exams. Early detection and treatment, Denton says, can sometimes even result in improved vision.
• Manage other medical conditions such as CVD and high blood pressure.
• Achieve and maintain a healthy weight and engage in regular exercise.
• Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially dark leafy greens, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids.

AMD can lead to social isolation and reduced quality of life, so doing what you can to support your eye health and responding to warning signs with early intervention is an important part of self-care.

*Eye School with Dr D. (2022, December 21). Do You Always Go Blind With Macular Degeneration? What Is The Main Cause Of Macular Degeneration? [Video File]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyM5_gYoJxQ

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