Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Some changes to your eyes are normal as you get older, but other changes can be more serious. Macular degeneration is an eye condition that gradually affects your central vision. It damages the macula, the central part of the retina that helps you see fine details clearly. The disease is most common in adults over age 60, which is why it’s called age-related macular degeneration, or AMD.

AMD is managed by different types of eye specialists. Optometrists provide routine eye care, can diagnose AMD, and may start basic treatments. Because AMD can require more complex care, you’ll typically be referred to an ophthalmologist, an eye doctor who can perform advanced medical and surgical care. Penn Medicine offers comprehensive eye care and treatment for AMD, combining leading therapies and dedicated specialists to help preserve your vision.

Dry AMD usually develops slowly and may not cause symptoms at first. You might notice gradual blurriness or trouble seeing fine details over time. Wet AMD can cause sudden vision changes like straight lines appearing wavy or areas of vision becoming dark or blank.

As AMD progresses, you may notice:

• Objects appear faded or less detailed
• A need for more light when reading or doing close work
• A dark or empty spot in the center of your vision
• Difficulty recognizing faces

While the exact cause of AMD isn’t fully understood, the chances of developing it increase with age.

Other risk factors include:

• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• A high-fat diet
• Having a family history of the disease

Your eye care provider can often detect AMD during a thorough eye exam. They’ll ask about changes in your vision and review your health and family history. Eye drops may be used to dilate (widen) your pupils so your provider can see the back of your eye clearly.

Other specialized tests may be recommended, too. For example, you may be asked to look at a grid of straight lines, called an Amsler grid. If the lines appear wavy or have missing areas, it could be a sign of AMD. Talk with your provider if you have questions about any suggested tests.

Treatment for age-related macular degeneration depends on whether you have the dry or wet form.

For dry AMD, no treatment can restore lost vision, but certain vitamins may help slow the disease. Your provider may recommend AREDS2 supplements, a blend of vitamins C and E, copper, zinc, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Eating leafy greens and other foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin may also help protect the macula.

For wet AMD, treatments can often slow the disease and preserve vision. The main therapy is anti-VEGF injections, which stop the growth of abnormal, leaky blood vessels under the retina. Other treatments, like photodynamic therapy or laser surgery, can also help seal damaged blood vessels and reduce further vision loss.

No matter your type of AMD, low-vision aids, like magnifiers, large-print books, or adaptive devices, can help you make the most of your remaining sight and maintain independence.

With both types of AMD, central vision loss can occur quickly, especially with the wet form. That’s why it’s important to have regular eye exams and care from eye specialists who specialize in retinal diseases.

At Penn Medicine, you’ll find comprehensive eye care that combines advanced treatment, rapid access to specialists, and innovative research. Our team is equipped to handle urgent cases of wet AMD, providing prompt treatment to help preserve vision. We’re also leading research into new therapies that may further slow or prevent vision loss.