Are you at Risk for Loss of Central Vision?

Wet AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) is also called Advanced Neovascular AMD. Wet AMD is a
less common type of AMD compared to Dry AMD. It causes faster vision loss. Any stage of Dry AMD can
develop and become Wet AMD. Unlike dry AMD that has 3 stages (early, intermediate and late); AMD is
always in the late stage. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow at the back of the eye and
damage the macula.

AMD symptoms depend on the stage and since it is a progressive disease, it gets worse over time.

Early dry AMD has no symptoms. Intermediate Dry AMD still has no symptoms but others may notice mild
symptoms such as mild blurriness in the central vision or trouble seeing in low lighting.

Late AMD (whether wet or dry type) shows symptoms such as seeing straight lines as wavy or crooked. It
is also noticeable that there is a blurry area near the center of one’s vision. As time passes by, this blurry
area tends to get bigger and one may start seeing blank spots. Colors will also start to be less bright
than normal and difficulty in seeing in low lighting will also be encountered.

How to know if one is at risk for AMD?

The risk for AMD increases as one gets older. People at the age of 55 and older tend to be more likely to
develop AMD.

Am I at risk for AMD?

Your risk for AMD increases as you get older. People age 55 and older are more likely to have AMD. How
can we possibly lower our risk level of developing AMD? First, we need to develop healthy choices and
healthy habits! Quit smoking, get regular exercise, maintain healthy blood pressure, maintain cholesterol
levels, and eat healthy food.

Develop these healthy habits and do the best healthy choice by dropping by Accent Eye Care to have
your eyes checked!