AMD is a deterioration of the macula, a small area of the retina where the “straight ahead” focus of your vision lies. As the eyes age, the cells in the macula, known as cone cells, start to deteriorate. Should enough cells suffer damage, central vision can become blurry or even completely lost.
There are two types of AMD, known as dry macular degeneration and wet macular degeneration. Dry AMD is by far the more common diagnosis, and is detectable during a regular eye exam. Early detection can directly affect treatment, the course of which will be determined by your Vision Care Centre optometrist. Common treatments include vitamin supplements, daily exercise, and the use of UV protective sunglasses to slow the degeneration.
Unfortunately, as there are only a finite amount of macular cells in the eye. Once full deterioration occurs, there is no way to reverse the damage, making it all the more important to schedule your yearly eye exam with Vision Care Centre for continued eye health monitoring.
