Types of age-related macular degeneration    

There are two types of age-related macular degeneration: dry and wet. Depending on the type, the disease can progress gradually over years or develop rapidly.   

Dry age-related macular degeneration   

Dry AMD is the most common form of age-related macular degeneration, accounting for about 90% of cases. It occurs when the macula’s tissue starts to thin and break down, causing a gradual loss of central vision. Drusen, which are small yellow deposits, may also form under the retina, contributing to the deterioration of the macula. 

In the early stages of dry AMD, there are usually no noticeable symptoms. As the disease advances to the intermediate stage, people may experience mild symptoms such as blurry central vision or difficulty seeing in low light. In the late stages, the disease causes distorted vision (straight lines may appear wavy) and dark spots in the central field of vision.   

Wet age-related macular degeneration    

Wet AMD is less common but more aggressive than dry AMD. It develops when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, causing rapid damage to the macula and resulting in sudden vision loss. Early detection and treatment of wet AMD are crucial in preserving your vision.  

Both forms of AMD can cause central vision loss, making it difficult to perform activities such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. Dr. Chander at Primary Eye Care Associates will test for both dry and wet AMD during a comprehensive eye exam. 

What are the risk factors for age-related macular degeneration?   

Risk factors for developing AMD include: 

• Age (over 50) 
• Family history of AMD 
• Smoking 
• Obesity 
• High blood pressure 
• Caucasian ethnicity 

Since there are no symptoms in the early stages of AMD, you should see an eye doctor regularly, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors.   

MPOD testing for AMD prevention 

While there is no cure for AMD, Dr. Chander can detect early signs of this disease and provide treatment to help slow down its progression. Our eye care clinic is proud to be one of the few clinics that offer macular pigment optical density (MPOD) testing for the early detection and prevention of AMD. MPOD testing allows Dr. Chander to evaluate the macular pigment optical density in your eyes. Low macular pigment optical density is a key risk factor for the development and progression of AMD. By identifying low macular pigment levels, we can take proactive measures to minimize the impact of this risk factor on your eye health. 

With the information gathered from MPOD testing, Dr. Chander can develop a personalized prevention plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include recommendations for lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and other preventive measures to enhance macular pigment density and reduce your risk of developing AMD. 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Primary Eye Care Associates 

People of all ages should get regular comprehensive eye exams, especially if they are at high risk of developing AMD. If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, schedule an appointment at Primary Eye Care Associates. We offer comprehensive eye exams at our clinic in South Side Chicago to diagnose a range of eye diseases and other issues, including age-related macular degeneration.