Posted by: Raleigh Ophthalmology in Eye Health
February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness about a condition that impacts millions of lives. We want to highlight the importance of eye health and encourage everyone to prioritize their vision. Join the movement to spread knowledge and support those affected by AMD!
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
AMD is a disorder of the macula, the part of the retina where your central and color vision reside. It is a complex disorder in which degenerative protein/lipids (called “drusen”) deposit under the retina. These deposits are seen in early macular degeneration. As the disease progresses, the retina’s structural support system breaks down, allowing abnormal blood vessels to grow or leak fluid and further disrupting the retinal cells.
AMD is the leading cause of central vision loss in Americans over 50 years old. There are two types of age-related macular degeneration (AMD):
Dry or Nonexudative — This form is quite common. About 8 out of 10 people who have AMD have the dry form.
Wet or Exudative — This form is less common but much more severe. The severity of wet AMD underscores the urgency of understanding and addressing this issue. It occurs when new, abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina.
What are the risk factors?
- Age: AMD affects more than 2 million Americans over 50 years old. The prevalence of ARMD in the USA is around 6% when 65 and almost 20% when 75 years old.
- Genetics: have a family history of AMD
- Smoking: Increases your risk for progression
- Diet: eating foods high in saturated fat (found in foods like meat, butter, and cheese)
- Have Certain Diseases: hypertension, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease
- Are Overweight
What is the treatment?
Depending on your type and severity of macular degeneration, many new and exciting treatment options can prevent further vision loss and help you regain vision, sometimes even back to 20/20. These treatments can include medications, laser therapy, and photodynamic therapy. Discuss your options with your eye doctor.
Look Out for Your Eyesight
Keep up with your eye exams, maintain healthy habits, and have good safety practices. By adopting healthy habits and maintaining regular eye exams, you can empower yourself to prevent AMD. Your eyes will love you for it! February is all about LOVE. Show some LOVE to your EYES and call TODAY to schedule your appointment!
