Understanding Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Its Treatments

Dry AMD:

This is the most common type, accounting for about 80–90% of AMD cases. It occurs when the macular tissues thin and tiny clumps of protein, called drusen, form under the retina. Vision loss is gradual and often goes unnoticed in the early stages.

Wet AMD:

This is the more severe type and causes faster vision loss. It happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, damaging the macula. Without prompt treatment, wet AMD can lead to significant and permanent central vision loss within months.

What are the early signs and symptoms of AMD?

The earliest symptom of AMD is usually blurred or distorted central vision. Straight lines may appear wavy, colours may look dull, and dark or empty areas may appear in the centre of your visual field.

A closer look:

You might also find it harder to read, drive at night, or recognise faces. However, in its initial stages, AMD can progress silently — which is why routine eye examinations are vital, especially for individuals over 50. At Clarity Eye Surgeons, our advanced retinal imaging and diagnostic systems can detect AMD even before noticeable vision changes occur.

What causes AMD and who is at risk?

The exact cause of AMD is not fully understood, but it is associated with both genetic and environmental factors.

Key risk factors include:

• Age: Risk increases significantly after 50.
  
  
• Family history: Genetics play a role. Having a close relative with AMD raises your risk.
  
  
• Smoking: Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop AMD.
  
  
• Diet: Low intake of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may increase risk.
  
  
• Medical conditions: High blood pressure, obesity, and high cholesterol can contribute.
  
  
• Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can damage the retina over time.

A closer look:

Understanding and modifying lifestyle risk factors — such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and controlling blood pressure — can significantly reduce your risk and slow AMD progression.

How is AMD diagnosed?

AMD is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination that includes a detailed assessment of the retina and macula.

At Clarity Eye Surgeons, diagnosis involves:

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A non-invasive scan providing high-resolution images of retinal layers to detect early changes.
  
  
• Fundus Photography: Captures detailed images of the back of the eye for monitoring progression.
  
  
• Fluorescein Angiography (for wet AMD): Highlights leaking blood vessels using a safe dye.
  
  
• Visual Acuity and Amsler Grid Testing: Helps assess distortion or blurring in central vision.

A closer look:

Our specialists use these advanced diagnostic tools to differentiate between dry and wet AMD and to create a personalised treatment plan based on the stage and severity of your condition.

What are the treatment options for AMD?

Treatment depends on whether you have dry or wet AMD and how advanced it is.

Dry AMD Treatment:

While there is no cure for dry AMD, several measures can help slow its progression:

• Nutritional Supplements: Studies (AREDS2 formula) show that specific vitamins and minerals — including zinc, copper, vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, and zeaxanthin — can reduce the risk of severe vision loss.
  
  
• Healthy Diet: A diet rich in leafy greens, colourful fruits, and oily fish (omega-3) supports retinal health.
  
  
• Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, managing blood pressure, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential.
  
  
• Low Vision Aids: Magnifiers and adaptive devices can help maximise remaining vision.

Wet AMD treatment:

Wet AMD requires urgent and active treatment to prevent rapid vision loss.

• Anti-VEGF Injections: The main treatment involves injections of anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) medications, such as ranibizumab or aflibercept, into the eye. These drugs stop abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce fluid leakage.
  
  
• Laser Therapy (in selected cases): Laser treatment can seal leaking vessels to prevent further damage.
  
  
• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Combines a light-activated drug with a cold laser to destroy abnormal vessels selectively.

A closer look:

At Clarity Eye Surgeons, all injections and treatments are performed by experienced ophthalmologists under sterile conditions using state-of-the-art imaging guidance. Each treatment plan is tailored to your individual eye health, ensuring both safety and long-term vision preservation.

Can vision be restored after AMD?

In most cases, lost vision cannot be fully restored, but early detection and ongoing treatment can preserve remaining vision and prevent further deterioration.

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With wet AMD, patients often regain some visual clarity after anti-VEGF therapy. For dry AMD, low vision aids, contrast enhancement, and visual rehabilitation can greatly improve functional vision. Our specialists at Clarity Eye Surgeons work closely with patients to optimise outcomes and maintain independence.

How can AMD be prevented or its progression slowed?

Although AMD cannot always be prevented, lifestyle changes and regular monitoring can significantly reduce the risk of severe vision loss.

Prevention tips:

• Eat a balanced diet: Include leafy vegetables, fish, nuts, and antioxidant-rich foods.
  
  
• Avoid smoking: Smoking accelerates macular damage.
  
  
• Wear sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays when outdoors.
  
  
• Monitor vision: Use an Amsler grid at home to check for distortion or changes.
  
  
• Regular eye checks: Have annual eye exams after age 50 or sooner if you have risk factors.

A closer look:

Our team at Clarity Eye Surgeons encourages proactive eye health and provides personalised guidance to each patient. Early detection through routine screening is the best defence against AMD progression.

When should you see an eye specialist for AMD?

If you experience sudden distortion, blurred central vision, or a dark patch in your sight, you should seek professional assessment immediately.

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Prompt diagnosis allows for early intervention and better long-term outcomes. At Clarity Eye Surgeons, our retinal specialists offer thorough evaluations and comprehensive care, from diagnosis to ongoing monitoring and advanced treatment.

Living With AMD

AMD can be emotionally challenging, but with the right support and management, most people continue to lead active, independent lives.

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Low vision rehabilitation, adaptive devices, and support groups can help improve quality of life. Our team ensures that patients receive both medical treatment and practical guidance for day-to-day visual challenges.

Conclusion

Age-Related Macular Degeneration is a serious but manageable eye condition. With early diagnosis, expert care, and modern treatment, it is possible to preserve vision and maintain your lifestyle.

At Clarity Eye Surgeons, we are committed to helping every patient see clearly for as long as possible. Using advanced imaging technology, personalised care plans, and evidence-based treatments, our specialists deliver excellence in macular and retinal health — backed by trust, experience, and compassion. If you have noticed any changes in your central vision or want to proactively protect your eyesight, book a comprehensive eye assessment with Clarity Eye Surgeons today. Our expert team is here to guide you with accurate diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and compassionate care — every step of the way.

Author Bio

Dr Parth Shah is a director and principal ophthalmologist at Clarity Eye Surgeons in Canberra, specialising in eye injections for retinal disease, cataract surgery & strabismus (eye muscle) surgery. With extensive training and experience, he is renowned for his expertise in the field. Dr Shah is dedicated not only to performing successful surgeries but also to patient education. His compassionate approach, combined with technical proficiency, has earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients. He is a true advocate for eye health and a trusted name in the Canberra ophthalmology community.

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