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by Bruce P. Rosenthal, O.D., F.A.A.0.
AMD is an eye disease that causes loss of central vision, leaving only peripheral vision intact. Possible warning signs include difficulty in distinguishing colors, blurry images, straight lines that appear distorted or wavy, and central vision blocked by dark or empty spaces. Those affected often have trouble reading a book, driving a car and distinguishing faces and traffic signs. An estimated 6 million Americans have vision loss from AMD and approximately 13 j to 15 million have pre-symptomatic signs of AMD, Some form of AMD affects 25 to 30 j million people worldwide, and that number is predicted to double in the next 5 years. Smoking is the only proven risk factor for AMD. Other possible risk factors include family history, age, race (more common among Caucasians), AMD in one eye, hypertension, high-serum cholesterol, sun exposure, farsightedness, eye color, nutritional deficiencies and/or a diet low in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Despite the prevalence of AMD, awareness remains quite low, A study commissioned by the AMD Alliance International revealed that only 3 percent of Americans surveyed think AMD is the leading cause of severe sight loss among adults 50 and older, and 79 percent are not aware of any treatment options. Every week, new AMD patients arrive at LIGHTHOUSE INTERNATIONAL claiming they were "dismissed" by their regular doctors with the words, "There is nothing more I can do for you." This is absolutely wrong. The field of low vision is advancing daily, and there are many ways to make the most of remaining sight. Follow these initial steps, along with others recommended by your eye-care provider, to preserve your vision.
Regular Eye Exams
Treatment
Vision Rehabilitation Counseling and training help people with vision impairment to function independently. Take advantage of vision rehabilitation services that include social workers, orientation and mobility instructors who can help you travel independently and rehabilitation teachers who can show you how to manage in such areas as your kitchen.
Support Services Dr. Rosenthal is chairman of AMD Alliance International and chief of Low Vision Programs at LIGHTHOUSE INTERNA-TIONAL. He also is a member of the American Optometric Association Low Vision Section's Executive Council. He has lectured widely on visual impairment and recently co-authored a book with Kate Ketly. Living Well With Macular Degeneration.  Back
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Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of legal blindness In Americans over 50, yet it's a disease that few talked about until recently. For years, many assumed vision loss was a natural result of aging. We are learning that this isn't the case, Much can be done to preserve vision through prevention, early detection via regular eye exams, treatment, vision rehabilitation, support services and research.
