ARMD is an eye disease that causes loss of central vision , leaving only peripheral or side vision intact ARMD is the most common cause of legal blindness for people over 50 years
Early detection of ARMD is key because lost vision cannot be regained

Types & detection

Macular degeneration is often related to aging, the two most common forms of ARMD are dry and wet macular degeneration.

• Dry form AMD ( atrophic macular degeneration )
  The most common form causes varying degrees of sight loss and it is identified by the collection of yellow fatty deposits called drusens in the macula the part of the retina responsible for clear and central vision . It is important to monitor the progression of dry form of AMD closely, since it can progress to the more severe wet form.
   
• Wet form AMD (known as choroidal neovascularization)
  Occurs less often (10 – 15 percent of all ARMD cases). But the chance for severe sight loss is much greater. It is characterized by the development of abnormal leaky blood vessels in the macula, scar tissue may form causing irreversible blind spots and in many cases legal blindness.

The ARMD risk factors include

Who should be on the lookout for AMD? There are no clear cut causes for AMD however; researchers agree that there are certain risk factors which can contribute to the onset of the disease.

Genetics People who have a family history of AMD or any other serious eye disease.
Old age Aging bodies begin to lack nutrients and may have a decreased ability to fight off eye related problems
Light eyes People with light colored irises are more prone to eye complications like AMD than dark eyed people.
Smoking Smoking is a major risk factor for age related eye problems because smoking can place the body under oxidative stress.
Hypertension Good blood circulation is important for maintaining healthy eyes
Diet low in vitamins , and antioxidants Researches indicate that a dietary deficiency, especially a lack in certain essential vitamins and minerals is one of the primary factors leading to AMD

*AMD treatment

Ocuguard slows down the progression of AMD.