Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults in the United States. This February, during AMD Awareness Month, Tyson Eye is committed to educating our community about this serious condition, its risk factors, and the importance of early detection. Did you know that 1 in 3 Americans over the age of 75 will develop some form of AMD? With such a high prevalence, understanding this condition is crucial.
What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
AMD is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It typically impacts daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. AMD comes in two primary forms:
- Dry AMD: The most common type, caused by thinning of the macula over time.
- Wet AMD: A less common but more severe form, caused by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina.
Risk Factors for AMD
While age is the most significant risk factor for AMD, others include:
- Family history: Genetics play a role in susceptibility.
- Smoking: Smokers are at a higher risk of developing AMD.
- Diet: Poor nutrition lacking in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to AMD.
- Sun exposure: UV rays may damage the retina over time.
- Chronic conditions: High blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases can increase risk.
Symptoms of AMD
Early AMD may have no noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams essential. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:
- Blurry or distorted central vision
- Difficulty seeing fine details
- Dark or empty spots in the center of vision
How Tyson Eye Can Help
At Tyson Eye, we’re here to protect your vision with comprehensive eye care services, including advanced diagnostic tools to detect AMD in its earliest stages. While there’s no cure for AMD, early intervention can slow its progression and help preserve your quality of life. Treatment options may include:
- Lifestyle and dietary changes
- Prescription eye vitamins
- Advanced therapies for wet AMD, such as anti-VEGF injections
February: A Time to Prioritize Your Eye Health
This AMD Awareness Month, we encourage you to schedule a comprehensive eye exam, especially if you’re over the age of 60 or have risk factors for AMD. With early detection, we can help you maintain your independence and vision for years to come.
Schedule Your AMD Screening Today
Tyson Eye is proud to serve the Southwest Florida community with state-of-the-art eye care and a compassionate team dedicated to your vision health. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule your AMD screening today.
