February is AMD Awareness Month – Protect Your Vision Today
Age-Related Macular Degeneration Affects Millions – Are You at Risk?
Did you know that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in older Canadians, affecting nearly 2.5 million people?
This progressive eye disease damages the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision—making it harder to read, drive, and recognize faces. AMD often develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, which is why regular eye exams are critical, especially after the age of 50.
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
AMD is a chronic, degenerative eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for clear vision. As AMD progresses, it can cause distorted vision, blind spots, or complete central vision loss, making everyday tasks more difficult. While AMD does not usually cause total blindness, it significantly impacts your quality of life by impairing your ability to see fine details.
What Are the Risk Factors for AMD?
Your risk of developing AMD increases with age, particularly for those over 50 years old. However, several factors contribute to the likelihood of developing this condition:
Genetics: A family history of AMD increases your risk.
Smoking: Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop AMD than non-smokers.
High Blood Pressure & Cardiovascular Disease: Poor circulation can limit blood flow to the retina, accelerating degeneration.
Obesity & Poor Diet: A lack of antioxidants and essential nutrients can contribute to retinal damage.
Excessive Sun Exposure: Prolonged UV exposure without eye protection may increase the risk.
How is AMD Diagnosed?
AMD is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, which includes advanced imaging tests such as Optomap Ultra-Widefield Retinal Imaging and 3D OCT scans. These technologies allow optometrists to detect the earliest signs of AMD before noticeable vision loss occurs. Additional diagnostic tools include:
Visual Acuity Tests – Checking for signs of central vision distortion.
Amsler Grid Testing – Identifying wavy or missing sections in your central vision.
Dilated Retinal Exam – Examining the macula for signs of degeneration.
Peripheral Drusen and Early AMD Risk
Peripheral drusen, which are small yellowish deposits found in the outer areas of the retina, may serve as an early warning sign of central AMD. While they are often detected incidentally during an eye exam, their presence can indicate underlying changes in retinal health.
Research suggests that individuals with significant peripheral drusen may have a higher risk of developing macular degeneration over time. Monitoring these changes with regular eye exams is essential for early intervention and proactive management of AMD.
The Three Types of AMD
Dry AMD (Non-Exudative AMD) - is the most common form in 90% of cases. It involves the gradual thinning of the macula and the accumulation of drusen (small yellow deposits), leading to slow central vision loss.
Geographic Atrophy (GA) – A more advanced form of Dry AMD where large areas of the macula deteriorate, causing significant vision impairment. GA progresses slowly but is irreversible. New medications, such as Syfovre (pegcetacoplan) and Izervay (avacincaptad pegol), are starting to hit the market now, which can slow the progression by up to 20%.
Wet AMD (Exudative AMD) – Although less common, Wet AMD progresses more rapidly. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula, leaking fluid and causing sudden, severe central vision loss. This type requires urgent treatment with anti-VEGF injections to prevent further damage. These injections often need to occur every 4-6 weeks for years.
Prevention & Early Detection Are Key
While genetics play a role, lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of developing AMD or slow its progression. Steps you can take to protect your vision include:
Eating a Diet Rich in Antioxidants – Include leafy greens, nuts, fruits and vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids.
Quitting Smoking – This is the most significant modifiable risk factor.
Managing Blood Pressure & Cholesterol – A healthy cardiovascular system supports good eye health.
Wearing Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Exercising Regularly – Promotes healthy circulation to the eyes.
Routine Eye Exams – The best defence against AMD is early detection.
Annual Eye Exams Are Essential
If you are over 50 or have a family history of AMD, you should have a comprehensive eye exam every year to monitor for any changes. Early detection allows for better management, slowing progression, and protecting your vision.
Vitamins May Help Slow AMD Progression
When it comes to protecting your vision from Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Vitalux (by Alcon) and PreserVision (by Bausch & Lomb) are two of the most scientifically researched eye vitamins available.
These supplements are formulated based on the AREDS and AREDS2 clinical trials, which showed that specific combinations of antioxidants, zinc, and omega-3s can help slow the progression of moderate to advanced AMD.
While these vitamins don’t cure AMD, they have been proven to reduce the risk of further vision loss by supporting retinal health and reducing oxidative stress.
If you have been diagnosed with AMD or have a family history of the condition, talk to your optometrist to see if adding an AREDS-based supplement to your routine is right for you.
Book Your Eye Exam Today
Don’t wait until symptoms appear—early detection is key to preserving your sight. If you have risk factors or want to maintain optimal eye health, book an appointment with one of our experienced optometrists at Helio Optometry today.
Schedule your eye exam now! Book online or call us at 780-628-6855
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post by Helio Optometry eye care clinic in West Edmonton is intended solely for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by a Licensed Optometrist. No doctor/patient relationship is established through the use of this blog. The information and resources presented are not meant to endorse or recommend any particular medical treatment or guarantee and outcome. Readers must consult with their own healthcare provider regarding their health concerns. Helio Optometry and its optometrists do not assume any liability for the information contained herein nor for any errors or omissions. Use of the blog's content is at the user's own risk, and users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health care based on consultations with qualified professionals.
