At Eyes Over Copley, we pride ourselves on promoting overall eye health, especially for those who are aging. Age-related Macular degeneration, also known as AMD, is classified as a progressive optical condition that impacts millions and leads to significant loss of vision when not properly managed. Understanding the stages of AMD can help you determine when you might require treatment.

Stage 1

Stage 1, or Early AMD, may only cause subtle symptoms that are not always noticeable. However, during this stage, the following may occur:

●             Drusen Formation: Drusen are yellow deposits (small) that begin to form beneath and behind the retina. This is a hallmark of early AMD in individuals at any age.

●             No Major Visual Issues: During stage one of dry Macular degeneration, you are more likely to still have normal vision as usual without knowing that you have AMD forming beneath your retinas.

It's essential to seek routine Macular degeneration examinations to monitor the progression of the disease.

Stage 2

During stage 2 of AMD, changes may become more noticeable, such as vision changes. The most common indicators of stage 2 AMD include:

●             Drusen Increase: The number of Drusen will increase beneath and below the retina.

●             Distorted and/or Blurred Vision: You may begin to notice vision changes, such as having difficulties seeing in low light or distortion in otherwise straight lines.

Stage 3: Advanced AMD

Once you've reached stage 3 of advanced AMD, you're at risk of vision impairment or loss. Advanced AMD is also divided into both dry and wet AMD (which is more serious and less common than dry AMD).

●             Dry AMD: Dry AMD in its advanced form, will cause more loss of central vision. This version of AMD is slow to progress, but will still impact your overall quality of life.

●             Wet AMD: Wet AMD involves abnormal growth of blood vessels beneath the retina, causing rapid and severe vision loss.

Contact Our Eye Doctor Near You Today

At Eyes Over Copley, we want you to feel educated and informed when it comes to tending to your AMD, or age-related Macular degeneration. The more familiar you are with the stages of Macular degeneration, the easier it'll be for you to determine when you need to seek professional optometry treatments or services. If you're looking for a way to address your AMD, or age-related Macular degeneration symptoms with the help of a professional optometrist near you in Boston, MA, contact Eyes Over Copley to schedule your initial appointment today.