February is AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month.

Did you know that over 4 million Americans that are over the age of 40 are visually impaired? Since AMD is not corrected by glasses, contact lenses or surgical options, it can create a sense of helplessness and anxiety when you are unable to do daily activities such as shopping, reading or watching TV.

We can help spread awareness that February is AMD Awareness Month together!

What is AMD?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an issue with your retina. When you have AMD, you lose your central vision. It is caused when the macula, a part of your retina, is damaged. While you will be unable to see fine details, whether you are looking at something close or far, your peripheral (side) vision will be normal. There are two types of macular degeneration: Dry AMD and Wet AMD.

In an effort to help educate our patients leading up to AMD Awareness Month, we have recently included information on both Dry and Wet AMD on our blog.

What are the symptoms of AMD?

Often times, there are no symptoms or warning signs until the disease has affected both eyes. Unable to see clearly while driving, having difficulty recognizing faces or trouble with reading, or if you notice you are struggling to see in dim lighting are some tell-tale signs. Since AMD affects your central vision, fading or changes in how you view color can also occur.

What are the risk-factors for AMD?