Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital, Lansdowne Road, Bournemouth, UK
For inquiries about cataract surgery, macular degeneration, or retinal disorders, please call 01202 702841.
About macular degeneration
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina at the back of the eye. The macula is responsible for central vision, which is needed for activities such as reading, watching television, recognising faces, and driving.
AMD mainly affects people aged 50 and over and is one of the leading causes of reduced vision in the UK. It affects central vision only; peripheral (side) vision is usually preserved. For this reason, AMD does not cause total blindness, but it can have a significant impact on daily life.
Types of AMD
There are two main types of AMD:
Dry AMD (atrophic AMD)
- The most common form (around 80–90% of cases)
- Caused by gradual thinning and degeneration of the macula
- Develops slowly over many years
- Vision loss is usually gradual and often mild to moderate
- Can progress to more advanced stages, and occasionally to wet AMD
Wet AMD (neovascular AMD)
- Less common but more serious
- Caused by abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina
- These vessels can leak fluid or blood, damaging the macula
- Can cause rapid and severe loss of central vision
- Often treatable if detected early
Symptoms of AMD
- Symptoms can vary and may include:
- Blurred or fuzzy central vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
- Difficulty reading small print or recognising faces
- Needing brighter light for close work
- A dark, grey, or blank patch in the centre of vision
AMD usually affects both eyes, although one eye may be more affected initially. Because changes can be gradual, symptoms may not be noticed straight away.
When to Seek Urgent Advice
You should seek urgent medical attention if you notice:
- Sudden deterioration in vision
- New distortion (for example, straight lines becoming bent or wavy)
- A new dark or missing area in your central vision
These symptoms may indicate wet AMD, which requires prompt treatment. Contact your optician, GP, or local eye casualty department immediately.
How is AMD Diagnosed?
AMD is diagnosed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Tests may include:
- Examination of the retina after pupil dilation
- Retinal scans (Optical Coherence Tomography, OCT)
- Photographs of the retina
- Occasionally, a dye test (fluorescein angiography)
Regular eye examinations are important, particularly as you get older.
Treatment Options
Dry AMD
- There is currently no cure
- Vision often remains stable for long periods
- In certain cases, specific vitamin and mineral supplements (AREDS-2 formula) may reduce the risk of progression
- Monitoring is important to detect any change to wet AMD
Wet AMD
- Usually treated with anti-VEGF injections into the eye
- These injections reduce leakage and slow or stop vision loss
- Treatment is provided through NHS hospital eye services, and also privately
- Early treatment significantly improves outcomes
Monitoring Your Vision
You may be advised to:
- Use an Amsler grid at home to check for distortion
- Attend regular follow-up appointments
- Report any sudden changes in vision immediately
Living with AMD
- Many people with AMD continue to live independently. Helpful measures include:
- Good lighting and contrast at home
- Magnifiers, large-print materials, and electronic reading aids
- Referral to low vision services
- Occupational therapy for practical adaptations
Some people may be eligible to register as sight impaired, which can provide access to additional support and benefits
Driving and AMD
Whether you can continue driving depends on your level of vision. You must meet DVLA visual standards and inform the DVLA if required. Your optometrist or ophthalmologist can advise you.
Reducing the Risk of Progression
- You can help protect your vision by:
- Stopping smoking (the most important modifiable risk factor)
- Eating a healthy diet rich in green leafy vegetables and oily fish
- Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol
- Exercising regularly
- Wearing sunglasses in bright sunlight
- Attending regular eye tests
Support and Further Information
- The Macular Society (UK) – information, helpline, and local support groups
- RNIB – advice, visual aids, and practical support
