Macular Degeneration: Symptoms, Types & Treatment Options

Macular degeneration is a progressive and irreversible eye condition that affects your central vision, which is what you see directly in front of you. It primarily impacts people over the age of 50, which is why it is known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK. The resulting sight loss can significantly interfere with daily activities involving fine detail in particular, such as reading, recognising faces, driving, and close-up work such as cooking or household repairs.

At OPTIX Opticians, we provide professional assessments and guidance for managing macular degeneration. While there is no current cure, we can help to protect your vision and thus your quality of life from deteriorating further.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration occurs when the macula, a part of the retina at the back of your eye responsible for sharp, detailed central vision, deteriorates.

There is no definitive cause of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), but age, genetics, lifestyle choices, and underlying health conditions all play a role in its development.

Types of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

There are two main types of age-related macular degeneration (AMD): the dry form, which is the most common, and the wet form. Each has a different progression rate and treatment options:

1. Dry AMD

This is the most common form of macular degeneration, accounting for more than 80% of cases. Dry macular degeneration progresses slowly over months, or even years, as the light receiving retinal cells we need to see die and aren’t regenerated, leading to a decline in vision. In its early stages, dry AMD does not cause noticeable symptoms, but as it advances, vision loss will become apparent.

If diagnosed early enough, people with dry AMD can usually carry on with their daily life for some time without being heavily affected. However, around 1 in 10 people with dry AMD will go on to develop wet AMD. If you notice a sudden change in your vision after being diagnosed with dry AMD, it’s essential that you contact our optometrists to be seen as quickly as possible, so we can get you the right help, or referred for treatment if it has progressed to wet AMD.

2. Wet AMD

This is the less common but more severe form of age-related macular degeneration. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow into the macula, leaking fluid or blood, which leads to scarring and rapid central vision loss. Wet macular degeneration can develop very quickly, but is now treatable, which is why it is so important that you get seen right away by our optometrists if you notice a sudden onset of symptoms so we can organise a rapid referral to the hospital for treatment if necessary.

Macular Degeneration Symptoms

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) often develops gradually, so early symptoms may be subtle. However, over time, people may notice significant vision changes in their central vision.

• Distorted central vision – objects changing size, shape or disappearing
• Straight lines appearing wavy or bent
• Dark or blank spots in the middle of your vision
• Increased sensitivity to glare
• Colours looking faded
• Words disappearing when reading
• Struggling to recognise faces
• Difficulty adapting to low-light environments

If you experience any of these macular degeneration symptoms, it’s important to book an eye test as soon as possible.

Causes & Risk Factors of Macular Degeneration

While being over the age of 50 is the biggest risk factor, several others can increase the likelihood of developing AMD:

Genetics – A family history of AMD increases your risk

Smoking – Smokers are 4 times more likely to develop macular degeneration than non-smokers

Obesity & Poor Diet – Lacking essential nutrients or consuming a diet high in saturated fat can contribute to macular damage and increase the risk of AMD

High Blood Pressure – If you have this, you are 1.5 times more likely to develop AMD than someone with normal blood pressure

Excessive Sun Exposure – UV light may accelerate macular damage if you have low levels of macular pigment, which contains lutein – an antioxidant that helps protect the eyes from UV exposure.

How We Diagnose Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Early detection through regular eye exams is crucial to diagnose either type of age related macular degeneration, so we can monitor your eye health and identify any changes over time, like small fatty deposits in the retina, which is a sign of dry AMD, for your peace of mind.

The Amsler grid test will also be used to identify whether you are seeing wavy lines, missing spots in your central vision, or any distortions. Monitoring changes can also help detect wet AMD if it develops.

Our state-of-the-art optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan is a key piece of equipment to detect early AMD, as it shows us a 3D cross-section of all the retinal layers including their thickness, allowing us to pinpoint the exact location of any change or abnormality.

Macular Degeneration Treatment Options

While there is no cure for dry AMD, certain factors may help to slow down disease progression in the affected eye and help you manage symptoms effectively. Wet AMD can now be treated if it is caught early on.

1. Managing Dry AMD

Our optometrists can recommend management solutions for dry AMD, from certain lifestyle changes to nutritional support that may help slow disease progression and help you maintain your quality of life:

AREDS2 Supplements – A combination of vitamins C, E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin may help reduce progression in some patients by 25% depending on what stage the eye disease is in. If you struggle with your diet, this supplement can help boost the nutrients you require to keep your macula healthy but should not be considered a substitute for healthy eating.

Healthy Diet – Eating leafy greens like kale and spinach, oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, eggs, and fruits and vegetables like bell peppers, oranges, and sweetcorn, which are rich in antioxidants, may support macular health.

2. Treatments for Wet AMD

Early intervention is critical to prevent rapid and serious vision loss. The most common treatments include:

Anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) Injections — Specific medications are injected directly into the eye to stop abnormal blood vessel growth and prevent leakage. Local anaesthetic is used to minimise discomfort, and these are inserted in the corner of the eye so you don’t see it. You will usually need a series of 3 anti-VEGF injections over the course of 3 months, and then the hospital eye specialists will assess whether more are required. Injections have the potential to prevent further loss of central vision in 90% of treated eyes.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) — This may be added alongside your anti-VEGF treatment but is still considered rarer and not typically used alone. It is essentially a laser that is shone into the back of your eye to destroy abnormal blood vessels.

Preventing Macular Degeneration

While AMD cannot always be prevented, adopting these habits may help to lower your risk:

Have Regular Eye Tests – Spotting signs of age-related macular degeneration in its early stages is crucial.

Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet – Consume foods high in lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids to help protect your eyes.

Quit Smoking – Even if you already have AMD, quitting can prevent further disease progression.

Stay Active & Maintain a Healthy Weight – Helps reduce risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Shield Your Eyes from UV Light – Wear high-quality sunglasses when outdoors.

Taking proactive steps can make a significant difference in preserving your vision.

Living with Macular Degeneration

Living with age-related macular degeneration can present daily challenges. Everyday tasks like reading, cooking, or even recognising the faces of your loved ones may become more difficult as vision loss progresses. However, there are ways to adapt and maintain independence. Low vision rehabilitation is a valuable mechanism for people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This may include learning new techniques for completing tasks, like ensuring you have adequate lighting to help you see better in different environments or using assistive technology.

Devices such as electronic magnifiers, screen readers, and specialised software for computers and smartphones can help individuals with low vision stay connected and productive. Working closely with our optometrists is essential to develop a personalised plan that addresses your specific needs and helps prevent further vision loss. With the right support and tools, many people with AMD continue to lead active, fulfilling lives.

Expert Care for Macular Degeneration at OPTIX Opticians

At OPTIX Opticians, we strive to provide the very best in eyecare and personalised management plans for individuals with age-related macular degeneration. Our advanced screening and diagnostic tools help diagnose and monitor changes in your vision, ensuring you receive the best possible guidance and support.

If you are concerned about macular degeneration symptoms or have a family history of AMD, call us now or book an eye exam online with our experienced optometrists today.