Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of sight loss in the developed world and affects more than 700,000 people in the UK. It can cause gaps or dark spots across your central vision and make straight lines look wavy or bent. When you’re reading, words may appear distorted or jumbled on the page.
There are two types of AMD – wet and dry.
Wet AMD develops when abnormal blood vessels leak into the macular (this is the small central point of the retina, which is responsible for our central vision) and cause scarring and loss of central vision. It can develop rapidly, but can be treated if caught quickly enough. Most people will receive a course of treatment where a special drug called anti-VEGF is injected into the eye to slow down the growth of new blood vessels. Anaesthetic is used to numb the eye to ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible.
Dry AMD is a slow deterioration of the cells of the macular. There is no currently approved treatment available on the NHS for dry AMD, but if your condition is diagnosed early enough, you can take steps to help slow down its progression, such as taking vitamin supplements, having a healthy diet and not smoking.
Whether you’re a patient in need of wet AMD treatment, or a relative/family friend looking for more information about AMD, our Patient Journey provides a step-by-step guide to every stage of treatment, so you know exactly what to expect along the way.
Age-related macular degeneration, commonly referred to as AMD, is a common cause of sight loss in patients aged 65 and over. AMD is an eye condition which affects the central part of your retina (inner lining of your eye) called the macula. It impacts your central vision which can make some everyday tasks difficult.
AMD is painless and can affect one or both eyes. Symptoms can include:
Dry AMD develops as a result of age-related degenerative changes to the macula at the back of the eye. Over time, this can cause gradual changes, affecting your central vision, making it difficult to adapt to light and dark surroundings and affect colour perception. Whilst there is currently no approved medical treatment available on the NHS, research is ongoing for this condition.
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels begin to grow under the macula, at the back of the eye. These fragile vessels can leak fluid causing damage to cells at the macula, impacting your vision. Wet AMD is known to cause more sudden changes in vision but can be treated if caught early enough. At SpaMedica, anti-VEGF treatment is available, which can help to slow down the progression.
We know a diagnosis of AMD can be daunting, but we’re here to support you every step of the way and answer any questions you have.
The following SpaMedica hospitals provide treatment for Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Birmingham, Cambridge, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Chester, Colchester, Coventry, Gateshead, Haydock, Luton, Macclesfield, Manchester, Newark, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, North Tyneside, Peterborough, Romford, Sittingbourne, Skelmersdale, Solihull, Stevenage, Stockton-on-Tees, Swansea, Watford, Widnes, Wirral.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of AMD, please get your eyes checked by your local optician – here’s how get a formal diagnosis and referral for treatment.
This page tells you what to expect during your first appointment with us, where you’ll undergo some non-invasive eye tests in preparation for your AMD treatment.
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