Age-related Macular Degeneration and Low Vision Awareness Month

February is Age-related Macular Degeneration and Low Vision Awareness Month, a time to highlight one of the leading causes of sight loss in adults over 50. At Martyn Kemp Opticians, we’re dedicated to educating our patients and community about AMD, the importance of early detection, and how to maintain independence and quality of life if vision becomes impaired.

What is Age-related Macular Degeneration?

AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) is a painless eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of your eye that controls your sharp, central vision. This is the vision we rely on for tasks such as reading, driving, and recognising faces. In the UK, around 600,000 people are currently living with sight loss caused by AMD, with approximately 200 new diagnoses every day.

There are two types of macular degeneration:

• Dry AMD: This is the most common form of AMD and is caused by a build-up of yellow deposits called drusen under the retina which lead to slowly worsening blurred central vision. 
• Wet AMD: This is less common but more serious. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, causing rapid and significant vision loss. 

Causes and Risk Factors

Though there is no known direct cause of AMD, there are a number of factors that increase the risk: 

• Aging (over 50)
• Genetics / family history
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Poor diet
• Bad cardiovascular health
• Physical inactivity
• UV and blue light exposure 

Symptoms of AMD

AMD often shows no initial symptoms until the disease progresses. As it progresses you may notice:

• Blurred or distorted area in the centre of your vision.
• Seeing things that aren't there (hallucinations).
• Changes in the way you see colour.
• Lines that are supposed to be straight appear curvy or wavy.
• Blank spots or dark spots in your central field of vision.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit your opticians asap, early detection could save your vision for the future.

How to Reduce Your Risk

While AMD cannot always be prevented, there are healthy habits you can adapt that can help lower the risk or slow progression. 

• Regular comprehensive eye exams- early detection is crucial.
• Healthy diet- leafy greens, colourful vegetables, and oily fish support retinal health.
• Exercise- good circulation benefits the eyes.
• Avoid smoking- one of the most effective ways to protect your overall vision and health.
• UV protection- sunglasses with 100% UV protection help reduce retinal damage from sunlight.

AMD damage can’t unusually be reversed, however, treatment can often slow its progression and help protect your remaining vision.

Dry AMD could be managed with specialised vitamins, healthy lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring.

Though more serious, wet AMD can often be treated with medications or procedures that help slow or sometimes improve vision loss.

Early detection makes the biggest difference, the sooner AMD is found, the more options there are to preserve sight.

Supporting Low Vision

AMD can lead to low vision, meaning vision loss that cannot be fully corrected with glasses or surgery. While this can impact daily life, there is a lot of support available. 

At Martyn Kemp Opticians, we offer comprehensive eye examinations to monitor eye health and detect changes early. We can also advise on low vision aids such as magnifiers and digital devices, and provide referrals for further support when needed.

Why Awareness Matters

Raising awareness encourages early testing, healthy lifestyle choices, and better outcomes. If you notice changes in your vision or are over 50, booking regular eye checks is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your sight.

Your vision is precious. With the right care, support, and professional advice, you can maintain independence and quality of life for years to come. Book an eye exam today!