What is aged-related macular degeneration (AMD)?
Learn about the symptoms, causes, and types of aged-related macular degeneration.
Summary
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition that causes central vision loss, including dark patches in your vision and distorted vision.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic, painless eye disease associated with ageing that affects the macula, leading to central vision loss.
Your macula is a small oval shaped area, only about 5.5 mm in diameter big, in the centre part of your retina at the back of the eye. Your macula is responsible for your sharp central vision and most of your colour vision. It is used for seeing the fine detail of objects, for example, when looking at images, reading, watching television, or driving.
According to the Centre for Eye Research Australia, AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in Australia, and it is most common in those aged over 50. It is estimated that one in seven Australians over the age of 50 have signs of AMD, although not all people will go on to experience serious vision loss.
For more information
- Visit Macular Disease Foundation.
- Talk to your eye care professional.
Always speak to your GP and eye care professional about the best treatment options for you.
Self-monitoring of AMD: People at risk of developing AMD or have early signs of AMD may use tools like an Amsler grid to monitor any changes in their central vision.
An Amsler grid is typically a printed card with a grid pattern on it, given to patients to take home. Patients are instructed to view the card with their reading glasses on, with one eye at a time and holding it 30 cm from their face. Whilst viewing the card with one eye, the patient is asked to look directly at the dot in the middle of the grid and to note if they notice any changes in their vision since they last viewed it such as any new blurriness, wavy or bent lines, or dark or blank or out of shape areas within the grid. If any changes are noted, the patient should make an urgent appointment with their eye care professional. Individuals with AMD should use an Amsler grid as recommended by their eye care professional.
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