Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Sometimes the delicate cells of the macula become damaged and stop working, and there are many different conditions which can cause this. If it occurs later in life, it is called "age-related macular degeneration", also often known as AMD.

In general, there are two types of macular degeneration, usually referred to as "wet" and "dry". This is not a description of what the eye feels like but what the Ophthalmologist can see when looking at the macula.

"Dry" AMD is the most common form of the condition. It develops very slowly causing gradual loss of central vision. Many people find that their vision slowly deteriorates by gradual central blurring, and that the colours fade away like the colours fading in an old photograph. There is no medical treatment for this type. However, aids such as magnifiers can be helpful with reading and other small detailed tasks.

"Wet" AMD results in new blood vessels growing behind the retina, causing bleeding and scarring, which can lead to sight loss. "Wet" AMD can develop quickly and sometimes responds to treatment in the early stages.