Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. AMD is the leading cause of significant central vision loss in adults over age 50 in the United States and other developed countries. People with AMD may find everyday activities — like reading, driving, or recognizing faces — increasingly difficult as the disease progresses. 

 

What Causes AMD?

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The exact cause of AMD is not fully understood, but it is strongly linked to aging, with risk increasing significantly after age 50. AMD is not caused by a single factor — it likely develops through a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and lifestyle factors. 

There are two main forms of AMD:

• Dry (non-neovascular) AMD – the most common form (about 80–85% of cases), characterized by the gradual breakdown of light-sensing cells in the macula and the accumulation of yellow deposits called drusen. Over time, this can lead to atrophy of retinal tissue and progressive vision loss. 

• Wet (neovascular) AMD – less common but often more severe, caused by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina. These vessels can leak fluid or blood, rapidly damaging central vision. 

 

Risk factors include:
• Increasing age (especially over 55)
• Family history of AMD
• Smoking
• High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
• High-fat, low-nutrient diet
• Excessive sunlight exposure
• Caucasian ethnicity — though AMD occurs in all races 

 

Symptoms

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In the early stages, AMD may have no noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, common signs include:

• Blurred or distorted central vision — straight lines may look wavy or bent

• Difficulty seeing fine details or reading in low light

• Dark or blurry spots in the center of vision

• Colors appearing less bright or washed out 

 

Peripheral (side) vision is usually preserved, and complete blindness from AMD is rare. 

 

How AMD Is Diagnosed

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AMD is typically detected during a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Your eye doctor may use:

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• Amsler Grid tests to detect visual distortion

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging

• Fluorescein or indocyanine green angiography to evaluate blood flow and retinal structure 

 

Regular eye exams are important for early detection — especially for people over age 50 or those with risk factors. 

 

Treatment Options

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There is currently no cure for AMD, but several treatments can slow progression and preserve vision, depending on the type:

Dry AMD

• No treatment for early stages, but nutritional supplements based on the AREDS/AREDS2 formula (e.g., vitamins C, E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin) have been shown to reduce the risk of progression in intermediate dry AMD. 

 Wet AMD

• Intravitreal anti-VEGF injections (e.g., ranibizumab, aflibercept, bevacizumab, faricimab) help block abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage, often stabilizing or improving vision. 

• Other approaches may include photodynamic therapy in select cases

 

Emerging treatments — including medications targeting geographic atrophy (late dry AMD) and innovative retinal implants — are being studied and offer future promise. 

 

Living With AMD

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While AMD affects vision, many people continue with daily activities using low-vision aids, adaptive strategies, and support from eye care professionals. Lifestyle changes — such as quitting smoking, eating a diet rich in leafy greens and fish, controlling blood pressure, and protecting eyes from UV light — may support overall eye health. 

 

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