AMD Awareness Month: Understanding AMD and Preserving Your Vision

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects the macula, the small but critical part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. You rely on the macula for detailed tasks like reading, driving, and recognizing faces. As we age, the likelihood of developing AMD increases, which is why it is a major concern for adults over 50.

AMD occurs in two main forms: dry and wet. Dry AMD is more common and involves gradual thinning and aging changes in the macula, which can slowly reduce central vision over time. Wet AMD develops when abnormal blood vessels grow underneath the macula, a process called neovascularization. These fragile vessels can leak or bleed, often causing faster and more significant vision changes.

In the early stages, AMD may not cause noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, you may experience blurriness, distortion, or a dark or blank area in the center of your vision. Risk factors include age, a family history of AMD, smoking, high blood pressure, and systemic health conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

While there is currently no cure for AMD, regular comprehensive eye exams are critical for detecting changes early and managing them effectively. Treatment focuses on slowing progression and preserving as much useful vision as possible. At The EyeDoctors Optometrists, we emphasize early diagnosis, consistent follow-up, and personalized care plans to help patients remain as active and independent as possible with AMD.

Early Signs of Macular Degeneration

For many people, age-related macular degeneration begins with very subtle changes. You may not notice problems with your vision at first, which is why routine eye exams become especially important after age 50. Early or mild symptoms can include:

• Blurry or fuzzy central vision

• Difficulty reading small print or needing brighter light to read

• Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted

• A dark, gray, or blank spot in central vision

• Colors looking less vivid than they used to

Wet AMD often causes more rapid and noticeable changes. If you suddenly notice new distortion, a quickly enlarging dark spot, or a sudden drop in central vision, it is important to schedule an eye exam right away. Prompt evaluation and treatment can make a big difference in protecting the vision you have.

The Importance AMD Awareness Month

AMD Awareness Month plays an important role in bringing attention to age-related macular degeneration for patients, caregivers, and the wider community. At The EyeDoctors Optometrists, we see this month as an opportunity to start conversations about who is at risk, what symptoms to watch for, and how routine eye exams can help catch AMD earlier.

This observance is also about supporting those already living with AMD. Sharing information about treatment options, nutrition and lifestyle tips, and low-vision resources can help people feel more prepared and less alone as they adapt to changes in their vision.

AMD Awareness Month further underscores the importance of ongoing research into prevention and treatment. Through education, advocacy, and patient-centered care, The EyeDoctors Optometrists is committed to improving outcomes for individuals with AMD and contributing to the broader effort to protect vision as we age.

The 3 Stages of Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is typically described by both its type (dry vs. wet) and its stage (how advanced it appears on exam and imaging). Most patients are diagnosed with dry AMD, which often progresses through three stages: early, intermediate, and late.

Dry AMD staging is based mainly on the size and number of drusen—small yellow deposits beneath the retina—as well as changes in pigment in the macula. Very small drusen can be part of normal aging, but medium or large drusen are more concerning for AMD. Your doctor at The EyeDoctors Optometrists may also see darker patches of pigment or lighter, washed-out areas beneath the retina, which indicate that the underlying support layer is changing over time.

The three stages of AMD include:

• Early Dry AMD: Medium-sized drusen are present, but there are no notable pigment changes in the macula. Most people at this stage have no symptoms or vision loss. Your eye doctor will usually recommend regular eye exams to monitor for progression.

• Intermediate Dry AMD: Larger drusen and/or visible pigment changes are found in the macula. Some people still do not notice symptoms, while others may experience mild central blurriness, difficulty reading fine print, or increased trouble seeing in low-light conditions.

• Late Stage AMD: The macula has been damaged enough to cause noticeable central vision loss. In late dry AMD, light-sensitive cells slowly break down. Wet AMD is always considered a late stage and can develop from any stage of dry AMD when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and begin to leak or bleed, often causing more sudden and dramatic changes in vision.

Reducing Risk and Managing Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is a serious condition that can impact central vision, but there are practical steps you can take to support long-term eye health and, in some cases, slow its progression. Early diagnosis, consistent follow-up, and healthy lifestyle choices all work together to help protect your sight.

Risk Reduction Strategies

Catching AMD early is one of the most important parts of managing it. A comprehensive eye exam allows your provider at The EyeDoctors Optometrists to detect subtle changes in the macula, often before you notice symptoms yourself. Along with regular exams, healthy daily habits can support retinal health and overall well-being, including:

• Eating a balanced diet that includes leafy green vegetables, brightly colored fruits, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids

• Staying active with regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight

• Not smoking and limiting exposure to secondhand smoke

• Wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat outdoors to protect your eyes from UV light

These habits may help lower the risk of developing AMD or slow progression in people who are already at higher risk.

Management Techniques

For some individuals with AMD, particularly those with intermediate disease or certain forms of advanced dry AMD, nutritional supplements based on AREDS/AREDS2 research may help slow progression. These eye vitamins often contain antioxidants and the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which support macular health. Your doctor at The EyeDoctors Optometrists can advise whether these supplements are appropriate for you.

If AMD has already affected your vision, low-vision aids and rehabilitation services can help you make better use of your remaining sight. Useful tools may include:

• Handheld or stand magnifiers for reading and hobbies

• Task lighting or specialized lamps

• Large-print books, labels, and materials

• Electronic magnifiers or text-to-speech technology

For wet AMD, treatments such as injectable medications into the eye can help reduce leakage from abnormal blood vessels and may stabilize or even improve vision. In certain cases, laser-based procedures may also be considered. Your provider at The EyeDoctors Optometrists will recommend a management plan tailored to your type and stage of AMD, your overall health, and the activities that matter most to you.

How is Macular Degeneration Diagnosed?

Age-related macular degeneration is most often detected during a comprehensive, dilated eye exam, sometimes before you notice any changes in how you see. The process is straightforward and comfortable. Dilating drops are used to widen your pupils so your doctor at The EyeDoctors Optometrists can clearly view the retina and macula and look for signs of AMD or other eye conditions.

1. History and Symptom Review: Your provider at The EyeDoctors Optometrists will ask about any changes in your central vision, your family history of eye disease, and lifestyle habits such as smoking, diet, and sun exposure. They may also review your general health and medications, since conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can affect the eyes.

2. Dilated Retinal Exam: Once the pupils are dilated, your eye doctor carefully examines the macula and surrounding retina for classic signs of AMD, such as drusen, pigment changes, or features that suggest wet AMD, including fluid, bleeding, or swelling.

3. Retinal Imaging: To document what they see and track changes over time, your doctor may recommend imaging tests. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive scan that produces detailed cross-sectional images of the retinal layers, helping reveal subtle swelling or damage. Many offices also use retinal photographs or similar imaging tools to capture clear pictures of the macula for comparison at future visits.

4. Vascular Testing: If there is concern about abnormal blood vessel growth related to wet AMD, your provider may suggest a fluorescein angiography or a similar test. A special dye is injected into a vein in your arm, and a camera takes rapid images as the dye travels through the blood vessels in the eye. These images help your doctor look for leakage, new vessel growth, or other changes that can guide treatment decisions.

Living with Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Being told you have AMD can feel overwhelming, but many people are able to stay active and independent with the right care, tools, and support. At The EyeDoctors Optometrists, our goal is to help protect the vision you have and support you as you adapt to any changes in a practical, encouraging way.

Our team develops individualized care plans that take into account your stage of AMD, your daily routines, and your visual goals. These plans may include regular monitoring, lifestyle and nutrition recommendations, and discussion of treatment options when appropriate. We also understand that changes in vision can affect confidence, mood, and relationships, and we can connect you with resources to help you manage the emotional side of living with AMD.

Simple strategies and low-vision tools can make everyday tasks easier, such as:

• Magnifying devices for reading and hobbies

• High-contrast, large-print materials

• Text-to-speech or screen-reading software

• Brighter, well-placed lighting at home

• Simple modifications like high-contrast labels on appliances and bold markings on steps or edges

With regular eye exams, smart home adjustments, and a supportive care team, many people with AMD maintain their independence and quality of life. The EyeDoctors Optometrists is here to help guide you from diagnosis through long-term management.

How to Take Part in AMD Awareness Month

Participating in AMD Awareness Month is a meaningful way to support people affected by macular degeneration and to encourage healthier vision habits in your community. At The EyeDoctors Optometrists, we invite patients, caregivers, and community members to get involved—whether you are directly affected by AMD or simply want to help raise awareness.

You can participate by:

1. Learning and Sharing with Others: Spend time learning about AMD, including risk factors, early warning signs, and treatment options. Share what you learn with family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Better awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis and improved long-term outcomes.

2. Joining Events and Programs: Look for AMD-focused talks, webinars, screenings, or community programs in your area or online. These events are a great way to hear from eye care professionals, ask questions, and connect with others who are interested in protecting their vision.

3. Supporting Advocacy and Research: Consider supporting organizations that fund AMD research or promote eye health initiatives. You can also use your voice to encourage policies and programs that improve access to comprehensive eye exams, low-vision services, and treatment.

Participation during AMD Awareness Month can spark year-round habits that protect sight—such as scheduling regular eye exams, paying attention to changes in your vision, and talking openly about eye health with those around you. The EyeDoctors Optometrists welcomes you to be part of this effort as we work together to support people living with AMD and promote healthy vision at every age.