Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye illness that affects vision over time. AMD progresses through specific stages, each with unique effects on sight. Understanding these stages can help individuals recognize symptoms early and seek treatment when needed.
 

What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

AMD is an eye disease that damages the macula. The macula helps us see details in the middle of our vision. When the macula is damaged, central vision can blur or fade, making it harder to read, drive, or recognize faces. AMD typically affects people over 50 and progresses gradually.
 

The Stages of AMD

AMD has three specific stages. Each stage affects vision differently.
 

Early AMD

Here, people often do not notice any vision changes. Tiny yellow spots, known as drusen, build up beneath the retina. These drusen do not directly impact vision at this stage. However, their presence can signal a higher risk of progression. An eye exam can detect these drusen early, even before symptoms appear.
 

Signs of Early AMD include:
 

• Small yellow deposits (drusen) visible during an eye exam.

• No noticeable changes in vision.

• A higher chance of progression if untreated.
   

Regular eye exams are essential for detecting Early AMD. Early detection can allow lifestyle changes that may slow progression.
 

Intermediate AMD

In this stage, the drusen become larger, and some people start to notice vision changes. A slight blurriness may appear in the center of vision, though it often remains mild. This stage increases the risk of progressing to Late AMD. People with Intermediate AMD may need more frequent checkups to monitor their condition.
 

Key changes in Intermediate AMD include:
 

• Larger drusen deposits visible while undergoing an eye exam.

• Mild blurriness in central vision.

• Increased risk of progression to the late stage.
   

Late AMD

Late AMD is the most severe stage and can seriously impact vision. The macula is significantly damaged at this stage, causing noticeable vision loss. Late AMD can develop in two forms: dry and wet.
 

Dry AMD is more common and progresses slowly. It happens when cells in the macula break down gradually, causing blurry vision over time.
 

Wet AMD is rare but progresses quickly. Unusual blood vessels develop beneath the retina, leaking fluid or blood, which leads to fast vision loss.
 

Both types of Late AMD significantly affect the ability to see fine details. Wet AMD can advance quickly, making immediate treatment essential.
 

Treatment Options for AMD

There is no total cure for AMD yet. However, doctors can slow down its progression when they catch the condition early.
 

For Early AMD, quitting smoking and eating a healthy diet may reduce risk. For Intermediate AMD, specific vitamins, known as AREDS2, may help slow the condition’s progression. For Late AMD, treatments for wet AMD include injections that reduce abnormal blood vessel growth. Laser therapy may also be an option for some. Dry AMD has fewer treatment options, but specific strategies may slow its impact.
 

Living with AMD

Managing AMD is about protecting vision as much as possible. Regular eye exams and healthy lifestyle choices are key to slowing AMD’s progression. Support resources, like vision rehabilitation, can help those with late-stage AMD maintain independence.
 

For more on AMD, visit Gregg Family Eye Care. Our offices are in North Wales and Secane, Pennsylvania. Call (215) 699-2020 or (610) 831-4300 today to book an appointment.

Sources:

https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/about-macular-disease/age-related-macular-degeneration/stages-of-amd/

https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/age-related-macular-degeneration

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/stages-of-macular-degeneration#progression