Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

As of 2025, AMD cannot be cured but it can be treated. Treatment exists to slow down progression of AMD, preserve vision. Timely management in wet AMD can restore vision. Early detection and treatment are important for better outcomes. Lots of research is ongoing to try to find a permanent cure for AMD but no cure is yet available.

Complete blindness i.e zero vision due to AMD alone is rare. AMD typically affects only the macula i.e. the central part of the retina. This means it mostly affects the central vision leaving peripheral vision intact. Central vision is responsible for the sharpness and details in our vision. Most people retain some functional vision and can continue many daily activities with appropriate support, occupational therapy and low vision aids.

Yes, AMD often affects both eyes, though usually not simultaneously or to the same degree. If you have AMD in one eye, the risk of developing AMD in the other eye increases.

It is difficult to predict progression in AMD.

Usually, Dry AMD typically progresses slowly over years, while wet AMD can cause rapid loss of vision. The progression from dry AMD to wet AMD may also happen very quickly. This is why regular eye checkups are essential to keep a watch on symptoms.

This question is best answered by your retina specialist.

Usually, those with risk of AMD must get an annual dilated eye check up at the very least.

Those with early or intermediate AMD may be asked to follow up more often (3- 6 monthly) depending upon their risk factors, symptoms and eye examination.

Those with Advanced AMD must get their eyes examined as recommended by their retina specialist. This may be monthly if Anti-VEGF treatment is ongoing.

This is quite rare as age remains the main risk factor for age related macular degeneration. Rarely it can occur in people under 50 especially in those with strong genetic risk factors or underlying health conditions. Anyone at risk of retina problems must get at least annual dilated eye check-ups. Read more on risk factors of AMD here.

No, most people do not find AMD treatments physically painful. People may get annoyed at how often they have to follow up during active treatment but unfortunately this is necessary for the safety of your eyes and for preservation of vision.

During Anti-VEGF injections patients experience mild discomfort during injection, but overt pain is not usual as topical anesthesia is used.

Supplements for AMD are taken orally, i.e. by mouth, and thus are not painful. Read more about AMD treatment here

Yes, there is strong evidence to support the role of diet and nutrition in AMD. These studies have established that a well balanced diet rich in anti-oxidants (including minerals & vitamins) and omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in preventing the development of AMD or slowing down its progression. The AREDS1/ AREDS2 studies showed that a specific dose and combination of these anti-oxidants, minerals and vitamins were beneficial in AMD. Read more here

Yes, many genes are involved in AMD and it does run in families. Those with a parent or sibling with AMD have a 3-6 times higher risk of AMD. However, just having a genetic predisposition alone doesn't mean you'll definitely develop AMD. Your risk of AMD can be modified by changing other risk factors like lifestyle, diet and smoking. Please also see a retina specialist.

Driving ability depends on the severity of AMD and your visual status.

Early stages: In early AMD, vision is usually not affected or may be corrected with some visual aids

Advanced stages: In later stages of dry AMD or wet AMD, central vision is usually affected. It is safer for you to not drive at this stage.

Screens/ blue light from devices alone do not cause AMD or worsen AMD. Compared to the risk from aging, smoking, cardiovascular disease, and being overweight, exposure to typical levels of blue light from consumer electronics is negligible in terms of increased risk of macular degeneration or blindness. The blue light in sunlight is far higher than emitted from devices. However, disruption of sleep caused by excessive use of these devices may have a negative impact on your overall health- which may worsen AMD.

• There is a lot of research ongoing in AMD. In the last few years many new options have emerged, though not all widely available in India yet.
• Newer Anti-VEGFs like Vabysmo etc introduced in India are available at Shroff Eye Centre
• New medicines approved for late stage Dry AMD-Pegcetacoplan (SYFOVRE) and Avacincaptad pegol (Izervay). Currently approved in the US, and not yet widely available in India.
• New light therapy devices recently approved by FDA
• Gene therapy trials & stem cell trials ongoing. Read more about the latest treatment in AMD here.