What is AMD? Before understanding this disease, we need to know what the macula is.
The macula is a very critical area in the center of the retina at the back of the eye.
Retina (Retina) is the transparent photosensitive structure at the back of the eye, and the center of the retina is the macula (macula) .
If we compare the eye to a sophisticated camera, the retina is equivalent to the film of the camera, the macula is the most core and sensitive part of it.
Although the macula occupies only a small area of the retina, it carries out many key visual functions.
Our ability to read books and newspapers, recognize faces, appreciate colors, and perform fine work all depend on the normal function of the macula.
II. What is AMD?
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a chronic progressive degenerative change in the macular area that occurs with age , with patients mostly over 50 years old, and it is the most common cause of irreversible central vision loss in the elderly.
It is currently clinically divided into two main categories:
1. Dry AMD
This is the most common type , accounting for about 85% to 90% of all AMD cases.
It usually progresses slowly. In the early stage, one might only feel difficulty reading in dim light reading difficulty ; in the later stage, a permanent blank area or dark spot will appear in the center of the visual field.
2. Wet AMD
All AMD starts as dry, and some people (about 10% to 15%) progress to wet AMD.
Although wet AMD accounts for a smaller proportion of cases, it accounts for 90% of severe vision loss.
It can cause rapid vision loss (within days or weeks, or even faster). Typical symptoms include seeing straight lines as curved, and squares as distorted ; there will also be a fixed dark spot or obstruction in the center of the visual field.
III. Are there self-test methods?
When should you go to the hospital immediately?
Here is a home self-test tool recommended for everyone – the Amsler Grid .
1
Place the grid at eye level, at a distance equal to your usual reading distance (30~40 cm) , ensuring even lighting and no glare.
2
Put on your glasses (if any) , and cover one eye.
3
Stare at the central dot and check if any lines are distorted or missing.
4
Test the other eye.
If you find the following during self-testing: grids are distorted, grid sizes are inconsistent, a certain area is darker, or there is a missing piece, you should seek help from an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
In addition, if the following symptoms occur in daily life, it is also recommended to visit an ophthalmologist as soon as possible!
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Difficulty seeing in low light : Having difficulty seeing or reading in dimly lit rooms or low-contrast environments.
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Blurred vision and loss of focus : Feeling that the center of the visual field becomes blurry or difficulty focusing on details.
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Distortion of vision : Originally straight lines (e.g., door frames, lines of text, tile seams) appear curved, distorted, or uneven.
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Central scotoma : A blurry dark spot, gray patch, or “blocking sensation” appears in the center of the visual field.
AMD is the result of the combined effects of genetics, age, and environmental factors.
Although we cannot change our age and genes, we can reduce the risk of AMD by changing our lifestyle habits.
1. Quit smoking (highly recommended)
Smoking is a clear modifiable risk factor for AMD, smokers have 2 to 4 times the risk of non-smokers, and it can also advance the age of onset.
Studies show that it takes 20 years after quitting smoking for the risk to be reduced to a level similar to that of non-smokers.
2. Adopt a “Mediterranean-style” diet
Eat more dark green leafy vegetables: Spinach, kale, mustard greens, etc., are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin. It is recommended to have a daily vegetable intake of at least 200 grams.
Eat fish at least twice a week: Especially deep-sea fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon, sardines).
Fruits: It is recommended to consume fruit twice daily.
Also pay attention to the intake of nuts and whole grains, reduce the intake of red meat and processed meats, avoid the intake of trans fats, and limit alcohol intake.
3. AREDS2 formula nutritional supplements
Only for patients who have been diagnosed with intermediate AMD or have advanced AMD in one eye, under the guidance of a doctor, take a specific formula of high-dose nutritional supplements (AREDS2), which can reduce the risk of disease progression by about 25%. The formula includes:
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Vitamin C (500mg)
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Vitamin E (400IU)
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Lutein (10mg)
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Zeaxanthin (2mg)
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Zinc (80mg or 25mg)
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Copper (2mg)
It should be noted that for those without AMD or only with early AMD, there is no clear benefit to supplementing with AREDS2.
4. Engage in regular exercise
Engage in at least 3 hours of moderate-intensity exercise per week (such as walking) .
5. Manage overall health
Obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular diseases are all related to the progression of AMD. Maintaining an ideal weight and healthy blood pressure can protect the ocular microvasculature.
6. Outdoor light protection
When outdoors and under strong sunlight, it is recommended to wear sunglasses that protect against ultraviolet rays.
7. Regular eye examinations
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People over 50 with no symptoms: have a comprehensive eye examination every 1 to 2 years.
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Those with a family history of AMD: start having annual examinations from the age of 40.
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Patients with diagnosed AMD: follow medical advice for regular follow-ups.
Although AMD is irreversible, early detection and standardized treatment according to medical advice can significantly slow down its progression.
People over 50 should value regular eye examinations, quit smoking, have a balanced diet, exercise moderately, and actively manage overall health as the core of prevention.
If you have any questions about AMD, feel free to discuss in the comments section.
Finally, don’t forget to forward this article to the elders around you~
Peer-review expert
Chi Xin
Distinct Ophthalmologist, Ph.D. from Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
References
Content Editor LEE
