Ophthalmology · Eye health

Age-related macular degeneration

Understand AMD, its dry and wet forms and changes in central vision.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

AMD affects the macula, the central retinal area needed for reading and recognising faces.

Central vision may become blurred or distorted, with wavy lines, a central patch or difficulty recognising detail.

The exact cause is unknown; age, smoking, family history, high blood pressure and excess weight are linked to risk.

An ophthalmologist examines the macula after dilation and distinguishes dry from wet disease.

Visual acuity, an Amsler grid, retinal examination, OCT and sometimes angiography define the changes.

Dry AMD often progresses slowly; wet AMD can damage central vision quickly.

Monitoring, stopping smoking and low-vision support help; wet AMD often needs prompt injections into the eye.

Seek prompt advice for new wavy lines, a central patch or reduced central vision.

Sudden loss or distortion of central vision needs urgent assessment for possible wet AMD.

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.