Macular degeneration, also known as AMD (age-related macular degeneration) is a common age-related eye disorder that affects thousands of people in the UK. It occurs when the layer of cells beneath the macula, an essential region in the eye, begins to break down, impacting central vision.
Early diagnosis is crucial for macular degeneration treatment, and catching it as early as possible gives you a better chance of preserving your vision as much as possible.
So, what are the early signs of macular degeneration, and how can you spot them? We cover this and more below.
Early Signs of Macular Degeneration
The early warning signs of macular degeneration can be subtle, making it more challenging for opticians and optometrists to diagnose it early. However, there are some signs to look out for:
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Difficulty seeing in low light.
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Blurriness in your vision.
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Colours not being as bright or as vivid.
While some people may dismiss these symptoms as part of the natural process of getting older, they can signal that age-related macular degeneration is setting in.
Later Signs of Macular Degeneration
As macular degeneration progresses, symptoms can become more apparent:
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Straight lines looking wavy or crooked.
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Blank spots in your central vision.
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Greater difficulty seeing in low light.
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Difficulty recognising faces.
If symptoms are more pronounced, it may point to a more advanced form of macular degeneration.
Wet Macular Degeneration
Around 10% of dry AMD cases will progress into wet AMD. While the symptoms are very similar to dry AMD, wet AMD can develop rapidly, leading to sudden and significant vision loss.
Diagnosing Macular Degeneration
If you’re concerned about macular degeneration, schedule an appointment with your optician. They’ll be able to conduct various tests to examine your eyes for evidence of age-related macular degeneration. These tests can include:
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The Amsler Grid Test - An Amsler Grid is a grid made up of straight lines with a single dot in the centre that opticians can use to detect image distortions within the eye. For example, if the lines on the grid appear distorted or wavy, or if there are any blank spots within the frid, this can point towards macular degeneration.
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OCT Scans - Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans are non-invasive scans that show a detailed map of the retina, helping professionals to identify any thinning or damage that could indicate dry macular degeneration.
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Fluorescein Angiography - This test involves dye being injected into a vein and images being taken as it circulates through the bloodstream. It can help identity leaking or abnormal blood vessel growth within the eye, which may point towards wet macular degeneration.
Risk Factors for Macular Degeneration
There are several risk factors that may increase your chance of being diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration. These include:
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Age - Individuals over the age of 50 are significantly more likely to develop AMD.
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Smoking - Tobacco use doubles the risk of developing macular degeneration.
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High blood pressure - Poor cardiovascular health may contribute to retinal damage.
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Obesity - Excess body weight has been linked to faster disease progression.
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Family history - If a close relative has AMD, your genetic risk may be higher.
Although macular degeneration can’t be stopped completely, addressing controllable risk factors can help to slow the progress. While ageing and genetics can’t be helped, managing your weight and quitting smoking can help combat macular degeneration.
Macular Degeneration Treatment With Dry AMD Clinic
If you’ve spotted some of the early signs of macular degeneration, get in touch with Dry AMD Clinic today. We’ll conduct a baseline assessment of your eyesight and begin a cycle of specialist treatment using cutting-edge yellow- and red-light therapy, stimulating cells and helping to slow the progression of macular degeneration and preserve eyesight as much as possible.
Our approach is always patient-focused and proactive, and is available for both initial treatments and maintenance cycles to help prevent macular degeneration from worsening.