Summary about Disease
Non-exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), also known as dry AMD, is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss among older adults. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. In dry AMD, the macula thins and small yellow deposits called drusen accumulate, gradually blurring central vision. It progresses more slowly than wet AMD.
Symptoms
Blurred vision, especially central vision
Difficulty seeing in low light
Increased need for bright light when reading
Difficulty recognizing faces
Haziness or blurriness to overall vision
Drusen (yellow deposits) forming in the macula
Difficulty adapting to darkness
Causes
The exact cause of dry AMD is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:
Age: The most significant risk factor.
Genetics: Family history increases risk.
Smoking: Significantly increases risk.
Cardiovascular disease: Conditions affecting blood flow.
Oxidative stress: Damage from free radicals.
Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the eye.
Medicine Used
There is no cure for dry AMD and no specific medicine to reverse its effects. However, certain interventions can help slow progression:
AREDS 2 Supplements: High doses of specific vitamins and minerals (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Zinc, and Copper) have been shown to slow the progression of intermediate to advanced dry AMD.
Lifestyle Modifications: Smoking cessation, healthy diet, and exercise.
Is Communicable
No, non-exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration (dry AMD) is not communicable. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Regular Eye Exams: Crucial for early detection and monitoring.
Healthy Diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables (especially leafy greens), and fish.
Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking is extremely important.
UV Protection: Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from harmful UV rays.
Manage Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and other heart-related conditions.
AREDS 2 Supplements: Discuss with your doctor to see if these supplements are right for you.
How long does an outbreak last?
Dry AMD is not an "outbreak" type of disease. It's a chronic, progressive condition. The symptoms worsen gradually over time, not in sudden episodes. The progression rate varies from person to person.
How is it diagnosed?
Dilated Eye Exam: An eye doctor dilates the pupils to examine the retina and macula for drusen and other signs of AMD.
Visual Acuity Test: Measures sharpness of vision at different distances.
Amsler Grid: A grid used to detect distortions or blank spots in central vision.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Imaging test that provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina to assess its structure.
Fundus Photography: Taking pictures of the back of your eye to document the appearance of the retina.
Fluorescein Angiography: Although more commonly used for wet AMD, it can sometimes be used to rule out other causes of vision loss in dry AMD.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary widely.
Early AMD: May have no noticeable symptoms. Drusen are present, but vision may be normal.
Intermediate AMD: Mild blurring or distortion of central vision may occur. Difficulty seeing in low light or adapting to darkness.
Advanced AMD: Significant central vision loss, making it difficult to read, drive, or recognize faces. Progression can take years, or it can advance more quickly in some individuals.
Important Considerations
Early Detection: Regular eye exams are critical, especially for those with risk factors.
Monitoring: Even with dry AMD, monitor your vision regularly with an Amsler grid at home.
Conversion to Wet AMD: Dry AMD can sometimes convert to the more aggressive wet AMD. Be alert to sudden changes in vision and report them to your eye doctor immediately.
Low Vision Aids: As vision worsens, low vision aids (magnifiers, special glasses) can help maximize remaining vision.
Lifestyle Changes: Healthy lifestyle choices can play a role in slowing progression.
Support: Joining a support group can help with the emotional challenges of living with AMD.