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Age-related macular degeneration

AMD

Age-related wear and tear of the macula in the centre of the retina, where sharp vision is formed. The most common cause of reduced vision in older people.

People in Denmark with AMDOver 70,000Of whom wet AMDApprox. 30,000Most often affectsOver 60s
Contact us soon

If you suddenly see distorted lines or a spot in the centre of your vision, contact us within a few days.

What is AMD?

The macula is the small area of the retina that gives you sharp vision for reading, faces and details. In AMD this area wears with age. Side vision is preserved, so you do not go completely blind, but central vision can be severely reduced.

Dry AMD

The most common form. Develops slowly over years as the light-sensitive cells gradually disappear.

Wet AMD

New, fragile blood vessels grow in under the macula and leak fluid and blood. Can reduce vision within weeks.

Dry AMD with geographic atrophy. The pale, sharply defined area at the macula is tissue where the light-sensitive cells have died.
Wet AMD. New blood vessels under the macula have leaked blood, seen as the dark red rim around a pale, raised area. Without treatment it can leave a scar and permanent loss of sharp vision.

Symptoms

  • Straight lines look wavy or bent, e.g. door frames and tiles
  • A blurred or dark spot in the centre of your vision
  • Difficulty reading and recognising faces
  • Need for more light and reduced colour vision

Test yourself

Cover one eye with your hand and look at a window frame, squared paper or tiles. Do the same with the other eye. If the lines suddenly look wavy in one eye, you should be examined quickly. The healthy eye can hide changes, so always test one eye at a time.

Who gets AMD?

  • The risk increases markedly after the age of 60
  • Smoking significantly increases the risk
  • AMD in the family

Treatment

Wet AMD is treated with injections of medicine into the eye, typically every 4–12 weeks. The treatment is very effective, and results are best when it is started early. If wet AMD is suspected, we arrange a quick referral for treatment.

Dry AMD cannot be cured. In certain stages, special vitamin supplements (AREDS2) can slow progression. Ask the eye doctor whether they are relevant for you. Stopping smoking is always recommended.

Good lighting, magnifying glasses and visual aids can make everyday life easier if your vision is reduced.

This text is general information and does not replace an examination. If you are unsure about your symptoms, call us.