Macular degeneration, especially age-related macular degeneration (AMD), affects the macula and can reduce central vision needed for reading, driving, recognizing faces, and daily tasks. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage the condition and protect vision.
Macular Degeneration Treatment begins with an eye examination to determine the type and stage of AMD. Your ophthalmologist may recommend retinal imaging, including optical coherence tomography (OCT), to assess changes in the macula. Treatment is personalized according to whether the condition is dry or wet AMD and the severity of vision changes.
For wet AMD, anti-VEGF eye injections are used to reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage. Photodynamic therapy may also be considered in selected cases. For intermediate AMD, an ophthalmologist may recommend AREDS2 nutritional supplements to help slow progression. Lifestyle measures such as not smoking, maintaining blood pressure and cholesterol, eating a balanced diet, and attending eye examinations can support eye health.
Seek ophthalmic evaluation if you notice blurred or distorted central vision, difficulty reading, straight lines appearing wavy, or a new blind spot.