Macular degeneration can sneak up slowly – but when it hits, it affects the one thing we rely on most: our central vision. Early care is your best defence.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that damages the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for clear, detailed vision. When this area deteriorates, tasks like reading, driving, or recognizing faces become difficult – even if your peripheral vision remains unaffected.
AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50, and it tends to develop gradually.
There are two main forms:
- Dry AMD: The more common of the two, dry AMD progresses slowly as the light-sensitive cells in the macula thin out over time.
- Wet AMD: A less common but more aggressive form caused by abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina, leading to leakage and rapid vision loss.
Symptoms to Watch For
Macular degeneration often starts subtly. You may not notice the symptoms right away, but if you experience any of the following, it’s time to book an eye exam:
- Blurred or fuzzy central vision
- Distorted straight lines (they appear wavy)
- Difficulty reading small text
- Increased need for brighter lighting
- Dark or empty spots in your central field of view
Early detection can slow the disease’s progression – so don’t assume that minor changes in vision are just “getting older.”
Treatment Options for Dry AMD
While there’s no cure for dry AMD, lifestyle changes and nutritional support can make a significant impact. The AREDS2 supplement formula – a specific mix of vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin – has been shown to slow the progression of intermediate to advanced AMD.
Other tips include:
- Eating a diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and colourful fruits
- Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Avoiding smoking, which doubles the risk of AMD
Treatment Options for Wet AMD
Wet AMD requires more urgent and active treatment due to its potential for rapid vision loss. The current gold standard is anti-VEGF therapy, which involves injecting medication directly into the eye to stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels and prevent further leakage.
Commonly used anti-VEGF drugs include:
- Lucentis (ranibizumab)
- Eylea (aflibercept)
- Avastin (bevacizumab)
These treatments have helped many patients preserve – or even regain – some vision, especially when started early. Most patients receive injections every 4 to 8 weeks, although newer options and clinical trials are making longer intervals possible for some.
Your optometrist may also use advanced imaging tools like optical coherence tomography (OCT) to track subtle changes in your retina over time. This kind of regular monitoring helps ensure that treatment stays on track and adjusts as needed.
Why Ongoing Eye Disease Monitoring Is Essential
AMD can evolve from mild to advanced stages with little warning. That’s why routine eye exams – especially after age 50 – are a critical part of preserving your vision. Your optometrist can spot early warning signs before you notice symptoms and tailor your care plan based on the type and stage of AMD.
Even if you’re already receiving treatment for AMD, regular follow-ups allow your doctor to detect complications, assess how well your eyes are responding, and explore new treatment options as they become available.
Macular Degeneration Care in Richmond Hill
At Richmond Hill Eye Clinic, our optometrists offer comprehensive care for patients managing macular degeneration. Whether you’ve just noticed early changes in your vision or are already undergoing treatment, we’ll help monitor your eye health and explore the right steps to preserve your sight.
We offer AMD evaluations, retinal imaging, and trusted guidance for both dry and wet AMD cases. No online search or over-the-counter vitamin can replace the value of ongoing professional care.
Book Your AMD Evaluation at Richmond Hill Eye Clinic
If you or a loved one is over 50 and experiencing changes in central vision, don’t wait. Schedule an AMD evaluation in Richmond Hill with our team and get the clarity and care you need to protect your sight.