Many people don’t know that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of blindness in those 60 and older. This worrying lack of awareness puts older Americans at risk to a disease that impairs central vision and limits a person’s ability to read, write, and recognize faces. The good news is that you can protect sight with routine eye exams and some lifestyle changes. New treatments and protective steps can help people with AMD avoid vision loss.
What ophthalmologists want you to know about age-related macular degeneration
"I talk to patients about AMD, its risk factors and treatment options every day," says ophthalmologist and Academy spokesperson Rahul Khurana, MD. "Here are the things I tell my patients and that everyone should know."
1. What are the first signs of age-related macular degeneration?
The first warning signs of macular degeneration are subtle and easy to miss. In its earliest stages, you may not notice any changes to your eyes or vision. But at the same time, an early diagnosis allows for timely treatment. So how can you be sure to catch the disease early without obvious symptoms?
The best defense is having a comprehensive eye exam, even if you don't need glasses or contacts. The American Academy of Ophthalmology urges adults with no symptoms to have an eye exam at least by age 40. After age 65, it's important to get an exam every one to two years. But of course don't wait until age 40 if you notice problems with your vision or have eye discomfort.
2. If my dad or mom has AMD, will I get it?
While AMD is not inherited (passed down from your parents), having a family history of the disease does raise your risk. If you have a close family member with AMD, you have a greater risk of getting the disease. Before your next eye exam, speak with your family about their eye health history. Catching AMD early could better your chances of saving your sight.
3. Can you reverse age-related macular degeneration?
While vision loss from AMD cannot be reversed, early treatment can help save the vision you do have.
Fifteen years ago, there was little that we could do to stop AMD from stealing people's vision. The most advanced form of disease—called "wet" AMD because it causes fluid to leak from blood vessels in the eye—often led to blindness. Thanks to major advances in treatment—such as anti-VEGF drugs—fewer people are going blind. Sight-saving options are available to treat wet AMD. As an eye physician and surgeon, it is a relief to know that I can give these options to my patients.
In the future, treatments like stem cell therapy for AMD may be available to prevent vision loss from AMD. Vision aids like Oculenz someday may help people with AMD live independent lives.
4. Vitamins—in some cases—can slow macular degeneration.
If you have AMD, you may have heard that the AREDS 2 vitamin formula can help slow the disease. Clinical trials show that these vitamins for AMD can help with intermediate or advanced AMD in one eye. Trials have not shown that they prevent AMD in people without the disease. These supplements are only helpful for people with a certain form of AMD, so be sure to ask your doctor before taking them.
5. Does smoking increase your risk of age-related macular degeneration?
Many studies have found that smoking cigarettes can increase risk of AMD. And smokers with AMD will see the disease get worse faster than nonsmokers. If you smoke, you are twice as likely to get AMD compared with a nonsmoker. The good news is that stopping smoking is the best action you can take to lower your risk of AMD. People who quit smoking 20 years ago have the same risk of AMD as people who have never smoked.
6. How do I know if my macular degeneration is getting worse?
The Amsler grid is a simple chart that people with dry AMD can use at home to check for vision changes. All you have to do is look at it once every day! Learn how to use the Amsler grid to track progression and lower your risk of AMD-related vision loss.
7. Eating certain foods may cut your risk of macular degeneration.
Studies have shown that foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are good for eye health. Studies link eating these foods with a reduced risk of AMD — but not when taken as supplements. Other nutrients that help eye health include lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc and vitamin C.
To help cut AMD risk and maintain eye health, eat foods such as:
- cold-water fish (such as salmon and tuna),
- citrus fruits,
- kale,
- spinach,
- corn,
- broccoli,
- squash, and
- black-eyed peas.
Try some eye-healthy recipes (PDF 3 MB) as well.
8. Exercise can help protect your vision as you age.
Many studies show getting regular exercise may benefit your eyes. One study found that exercising three times a week may help reduce your risk of getting wet AMD. Studies also show that exercise may have a protective effect against all stages of AMD.
EyeCare America offers free eye exams and vision treatment.
Seniors may qualify for EyeCare America, a public service program of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. EyeCare America offers exams and care, often at no out-of-pocket cost. Visit EyeCare America to see if you qualify.