RA
1
1
Serious severity
· Ophthalmology
Macular Degeneration
Age-related central vision loss · AMD
The macula — the central part of the retina — slowly degenerates, blurring straight-ahead vision. Anti-VEGF injections work wonders for wet AMD.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- Rising with aging
- Typical age
- 60+ years
- Outlook
- Manageable, especially wet AMD
- System
- Vision
Reviewed by a verified Ophthalmology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Age over 60
- Smoking
- Family history
- Hypertension
- Diet low in greens
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Distorted straight lines
- Blurry central spot
- Difficulty reading
- Colours appear faded
- Difficulty recognising faces
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- AREDS2 supplements (dry AMD)
- Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections (wet)
- Low-vision aids
- Lifestyle and risk-factor control
- Amsler grid home monitoring
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Don't smoke
- Mediterranean diet rich in greens
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Control BP and lipids
Do’s
- Monitor with Amsler grid weekly
- Eat dark leafy greens
- Wear UV sunglasses outdoors
- Treat wet AMD early
Don’ts
- Smoke at any age
- Self-medicate vitamins without dose
- Skip injections when 'feeling fine'
- Drive if distortion sudden
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
Top specialists
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.