Facts about Age-related Macular Degeneration

So what exactly is the macula and how does it help us with our eyesight? Well, the macula is the part of the eye that provides us with our sharp and central vision.¹

Just like how it is named, Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) happens as a result of the deterioration of the macula as a person ages.² The macula becomes thinner, which reduces its function, thus causing irreversible central vision loss.³ It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in the elderly.⁴

There are some factors that will increase a person’s chance of getting AMD⁵:

• Over 50 years old
• Male
• Family history of AMD
• Caucasians
• Overweight
• Exposed to harmful rays like UV rays or blue rays (often on digital gadgets, outdoors)
• Diet high in saturated fats (eg: fatty cuts of red meat, lard, butter)
• Smokers
• Uncontrolled health problems (high blood pressure, sugar or cholesterol level)

Though common, it often goes undiagnosed. That is why knowing the early symptoms of AMD can help in its early detection before it is too late.

• Worsening of central vision but having normal peripheral vision¹
• Trouble seeing fine details (for example: difficulty recognising faces, reading books, driving)⁴
• Blurry, wavy, distorted vision³
• Colour blindness² 

Another way of early detection is by going for an eye check up. That being said, how often should you go for an eye check-up? Well, it depends on your age and risk of getting AMD⁶.

Prevention is better than cure. So love and care for your eyes now for a brighter future.