Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
What is age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) - also known as senile macular degeneration - is a chronic eye disease that affects the macula - the central part of the retina responsible for clear and precise vision.
The macula - also called the yellow spot - enables us to read, recognise faces, and see detail. When it is damaged, central vision is lost, while peripheral vision usually remains intact.
AMD is one of the most common causes of vision loss in people over 65.
How does AMD develop?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but the development of the disease is associated with:
ageing - primarily weakened circulation throughout the body - less oxygen and nutrients reach the tissues, leading over time to various disorders. In the eye, the macula is particularly sensitive to circulatory disturbances and prone to damage.
genetic predisposition
smoking
elevated blood pressure
UV radiation exposure
The disease develops gradually and often affects both eyes. In the early stages it is very difficult to notice - as changes usually do not affect vision and are asymmetrical. Only when one eye is covered at a time can differences in the clarity of vision between the two eyes be noticed.
Types of AMD
There are two main forms of the disease:
Dry (atrophic) form
The most common form of AMD - cellular deposits called drusen accumulate beneath the retina and lift it from the back of the eye.
Symptoms are milder at the start, develop slowly, but worsen over time - along with a gradual reduction in vision.
Wet (neovascular) form
Rarer, but significantly more serious.
Characterised by the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula - also causing it to be lifted.
The blood vessels can bleed and lead to sudden deterioration of vision - and therefore require prompt treatment.
What are the symptoms of AMD?
Symptoms often develop gradually, but can also be sudden (in the wet form):
blurry or distorted central vision
wavy or bent lines (e.g. when reading)
a dark or empty area in the centre of vision
difficulty recognising faces
need for stronger lighting
reduced contrast, changed colour and size of objects
How is AMD diagnosed?
AMD is detected through a detailed ophthalmological examination including:
Amsler grid test (to check central vision)
These examinations allow early detection and monitoring of the disease.
How is AMD treated?
Treatment depends on the type:
Dry form:
vitamins and regular check-ups are recommended
Wet form:
anti-VEGF therapy (injections into the eye) is applied
This therapy can halt the progression of the disease and in some cases improve vision.
Regular ophthalmological check-ups with pupil dilation and fundus examination - as well as self-testing with the Amsler grid - are therefore of crucial importance.
Test your vision with the Amsler grid
The Amsler grid is a simple test that can help with the early detection of central vision problems - particularly in macular diseases such as AMD.
How to take the test:
Put on your reading glasses (if you use them).
Hold the grid approximately 30 cm from your eyes.
Cover one eye.
Look at the black dot in the centre of the grid.
Pay attention to the lines around it.
Watch for:
Are the lines curved, wavy, or broken?
Is any part of the grid missing or blurred?
Do you see a dark spot in the centre?
Then repeat the test with the other eye.
When should you see an ophthalmologist?
If you notice any irregularities (bent lines, gaps, dark spots), see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
These symptoms may indicate macular disease - including age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Frequently asked questions
Can dry AMD convert to the wet form?
In a certain number of patients, dry AMD can over time convert to the wet form - which progresses faster and requires more urgent treatment. Regular check-ups are therefore mandatory even when symptoms are mild.
Can AMD be prevented?
AMD cannot be completely prevented, but the risk can be reduced. Stopping smoking, protecting the eyes from UV radiation, regular physical activity, and a diet rich in antioxidants - vegetables, fish, nuts - are all recommended.
Can AMD be inherited?
Genetic predisposition plays a role in the development of AMD. People whose parents or siblings suffer from this disease have a higher risk. Regular ophthalmological examinations are therefore recommended for those with a family history of AMD - starting at an earlier age.
Preserve your central vision.
AMD progresses silently - and by the time symptoms become clear, damage is already serious. Schedule an examination and find out in time.