What You Need to Know About AMD: Symptoms and Diagnosis

As you age, parts of your body stop performing as well as they used to. While that’s inevitable, you can slow down or minimize its effects by recognizing early warning signs and taking action. Such is the case with the vision problem that comes with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Vienna Eyecare Center, the leading eye care clinic in the region, discusses everything you need to know about this common vision illness.

What Is AMD and What Are Its Symptoms?

AMD is a disintegration of the macula or the part of the eye that helps you see clear, fine details. Its definite cause is unknown, but as its name indicates, AMD typically affects people more as they get older. Most patients start showing signs of AMD as soon as they hit their 50s and 60s, and it gets even worse when they enter their 70s and 80s.

Once you notice these warning signs, be sure to visit your trusted optometrist for a checkup and diagnosis:

Blurry vision – If you find you can’t make out the writing on a medicine bottle or straight lines appear distorted, then it’s time to have your eyes checked. When left unattended, these symptoms continually get worse.
Dark areas in your vision – Shadowy areas in the middle of your focal area are a strong indicator of AMD. In some cases, people experience whited-out areas in their vision.
If you’re 50 or older – It’s a good idea to have an eye exam every two to four years, and with increasing frequency, as you age, to help detect problems such as AMD. Your eye doctor can determine signs of AMD before you experience symptoms.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to detect if you’re suffering from this problem. A diagnostic tool called the Amsler grid may also be used, as it helps determine a change in visual acuity caused by AMD. Optometrists usually prescribe supplements and therapies to help alleviate the symptoms.

While AMD has no specific cure, you may be able to slow its progress when diagnosed and treated early. Contact Vienna Eyecare Center at (703) 688-7003 today to schedule an appointment. We serve patients in Fairfax, VA, and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Richard Snively