Macular Degeneration (Age-Related Macular Degeneration, AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common retinal condition that affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for sharp, central vision. AMD can make activities such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces more difficult. Although it does not cause complete blindness, it can significantly impact independence and daily life.

At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our ophthalmology team provides comprehensive evaluation, early detection, and individualized treatment to slow progression and preserve vision for as long as possible.

Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) often begins subtly. Patients may first notice mild vision changes before central vision loss becomes more noticeable. Symptoms may include:

• Blurred or distorted central vision
• Straight lines appearing wavy or warped
• Difficulty reading small print
• Trouble recognizing faces
• Dark or blank spots in the center of vision
• Fading or less vibrant colors

During your initial evaluation at The Medical Group of New Jersey, your ophthalmologist will:

• Review vision changes and daily challenges
• Perform a dilated retinal exam to view the macula
• Conduct Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging to assess retinal layers
• Evaluate risk factors such as age, smoking history, or family history
• Review overall medical conditions that may affect the retina (e.g., cardiovascular disease, hypertension)

This thorough assessment helps determine whether AMD is present and which type you may have.

Diagnosis & Risk Assessment

AMD is categorized into two main types (dry and wet), each requiring a different treatment approach.

• Dry AMD (Non-exudative or Atrophic): This is the most common type (about 80–90% of cases). Caused by the gradual thinning of the macula and buildup of drusen (yellow deposits). Progresses slowly. It can eventually lead to geographic atrophy (more advanced dry AMD).
• Wet AMD (Exudative or Neovascular): Less common but more severe. Caused by abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina that leak blood or fluid. It can lead to rapid vision loss if not treated quickly.

Evaluation

To confirm the diagnosis, your ophthalmologist may perform:

• Dilated eye examination
• OCT imaging to detect retinal thinning or fluid
• Retinal photographs to track changes over time
• Fluorescein angiography (if wet AMD is suspected)
• Amsler grid testing to evaluate central vision distortion

Risk Factors Assessed

Your ophthalmologist will discuss your personal risk and create a customized monitoring plan.¹

• Age (most common in adults >60)
• Family history of AMD
• Smoking (significant risk factor)
• Cardiovascular disease
• High blood pressure
• Prolonged sun exposure

1. National Library of Medicine. Risk Factors. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 1 Jan. 2018.

Treatment & Management

Treatment depends on whether AMD is dry or wet.

Dry AMD Management

While there is no cure, several strategies help slow progression and protect vision:

• AREDS2 vitamin supplements (for intermediate or advanced dry AMD)
• Smoking cessation, which significantly reduces disease progression
• Heart-healthy diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids
• UV-protective sunglasses
• Home Amsler grid monitoring to detect early changes

Wet AMD Treatment

Wet AMD requires timely treatment to preserve vision. The primary therapy is:

• Anti-VEGF injections (e.g., bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept): Reduces abnormal blood vessel growth, helps prevent leakage and scarring, and may stabilize or improve vision.

Treatment frequency varies by patient and may start with monthly injections, eventually spacing out as the condition stabilizes.

Your ophthalmologist will guide you through what to expect before, during, and after injections and discuss long-term vision goals.

Monitoring & Follow-Up

AMD requires ongoing care to track progression and adjust treatment. Follow-up care may include:

• Regular OCT imaging
• Dilated retinal examinations
• Visual acuity testing
• Monitoring for new distortion using an Amsler grid
• Review of supplements, nutrition, and lifestyle habits

Wet AMD may require visits as often as every 4 to 8 weeks, while dry AMD typically requires monitoring every 6 to 12 months.

At The Medical Group of New Jersey, we partner with you to protect your vision and maintain your quality of life through proactive monitoring and personalized care.