Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Care at UVM Health

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs from damage to the macula, the center of the retina. The macula helps you clearly see what’s in front of you.

AMD is the leading cause of central vision loss in adults older than 60. At the University of Vermont Health ophthalmology program, we understand that any type of vision loss is distressing. Our compassionate, caring retina specialists offer the latest AMD treatments to protect your eyesight and your quality of life.

An elder gentleman uses a magnifying glass to read a piece of paper.

Why Choose UVM Health?

As one of the leading comprehensive ophthalmology programs in the region, we offer:

Highly skilled retina specialists: You receive care from AMD experts. We have eye doctors (ophthalmologists) with advanced fellowship training and board certifications in retinal diseases.
Full range of treatments: We offer the latest guidance and therapies for AMD.
Research-based care: As part of an academic medical center, our providers are also active researchers who work to improve the detection and treatment of all types of eye diseases.

Types of AMD

AMD affects the macula, the circular area at the center of each retina. Your retinas sit at the back of each eyeball. Your macula and retina are both critical for sight.

AMD can affect one or both eyes. There are two types of age-related macular degeneration (AMD):

Dry AMD: Tiny clumps of protein called drusen build up under the macula. As you age, these protein deposits can damage the macula. This can lead to a gradual loss of central vision. Most people (8 in 10) with AMD have this type.
Wet AMD: New, abnormal blood vessels form under the retina and macula. These blood vessels leak blood and fluid, causing swelling (macular edema) and scarring. Vision loss occurs faster with this type of AMD.

Causes of AMD

The exact cause of AMD is not known. The disease generally does not occur before age 50. An inherited gene change causes some forms of macular degeneration that runs in families.

Risk factors for age-related macular degeneration include:

Smoking
Excess weight
Family history of AMD
Heart disease
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
High-fat diet

I really needed help understanding my new diagnosis of dry AMD. I am very grateful for my care and feel good about the assessment and the discussions.

UVM Health Patient

Symptoms of AMD

Early-stage AMD rarely causes symptoms. As more damage occurs to the macula, you may experience:

Blank or dark spots in your center of vision
Changes in how you see colors
Difficulty seeing in low light
Distorted or blurry vision
Poor night vision
Seeing straight lines as wavy or curvy

Diagnosing AMD

At UVM Health, we use the latest technology to diagnose retinal eye disease. Our retina specialists start by reviewing your symptoms and medical history.

You may get one or more of these diagnostic tests:

Eye examination: Your vision tests may involve identifying wavy-looking lines or sections on a grid. Your provider will also dilate your eyes and use a special lens to examine your retina.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This 3D retinal imaging scan uses safe laser technology to produce detailed 3D images of the retina and macula.
OCT angiography (OCT-A): This advanced OCT scan uses laser light reflection to create 3D images of blood moving through the retina.
Fluorescein angiography: Your provider uses a special camera to view an injectable dye as it flows through blood vessels in your retina. This test can show abnormal blood vessels under the retina.

Wellness & Prevention

Evidence shows that proactive health care focused on preventing illness leads to better outcomes. We're here to help you live a healthier, happier life. We offer wellness and prevention services to empower you to take control of your health.

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AMD Treatment

Your treatment plan will depend on the type and severity of your AMD. Our retinal specialists offer the latest treatments to help preserve your vision.

Anti-VEGF Medications for Wet AMD

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medications are the primary treatment for wet AMD. We numb your eye and keep you comfortable as you receive an injection into one or both eyes. This medication reduces levels of VEGF, a protein that allows new blood vessels to form. Anti-VEGF treatment can slow disease progression and may improve your vision.

Nutritional Supplements for Dry AMD

There is no medical treatment available for dry AMD. Research shows that a combination of select vitamins and minerals, as well as a healthy diet, may slow disease progression. We recommend supplements that follow the AREDS2 formulation (Age-Related Eye Disease Study).