7 Misconceptions About Age-Related Macular Degeneration & Low Vision | AMD & Low Vision Awareness Month

Being told that you have age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or low vision can be overwhelming, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with these conditions. Of course, you might also be filled with questions.

​Learning as much as possible about your condition can ease fears and help you take an active role in your treatment. 

One of the first things to do is separate the myths from reality. Below are some common misconceptions regarding age-related macular degeneration and low vision.
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Misconception #1: There Is Nothing I Can Do Once I’ve Been Diagnosed with AMD

Reality: Although there is not a cure for AMD, there are things you can do, which may preserve your vision for as long as possible. For example, dry AMD may be treated with nutritional therapy. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, a combination of vitamins and minerals taken daily may slow the progression of dry age-related macular degeneration. The supplements include lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc, along with vitamin C, E, and D3. People with AMD should also avoid smoking, since it can damage the eyes and may cause the condition to worsen.
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Misconception #2: If I Develop AMD, I’m Going to Go Completely Blind

Reality: Damage to the macula affects central vision. People with advanced AMD lose their ability to see objects clearly in their direct line of sight. While they may still have peripheral or side vision, vision impairment can be significant. The loss of central vision affects a person’s ability to perform many activities, like driving a car, reading, writing, and sewing. While side vision is preserved in AMD, people with advanced age-related macular degeneration that has compromised their central vision are considered legally blind according to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation.
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Misconception #3: People with Low Vision Can Only Do Limited Types of Work

Reality: Although some jobs may not be possible with low vision, there is often a wide range of occupations available to people with vision loss. People with low vision have many types of occupations, including business, law, and human services. In many cases, reasonable accommodations can be provided to enable people with low vision to continue with their employment. Reasonable accommodations for people with low vision may include a computer with screen magnification, taking devices, and adjustable lightening.
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Misconception #4: I Don’t Need an Eye Exam Unless I Notice Vision Changes

Reality: Many types of eye diseases, including AMD, do not usually have any early warning signs. In many cases, by the time a person notices vision changes, irreversible damage has already occurred. Regular eye exams can diagnose conditions such as age-related macular degeneration before noticeable vision loss has occurred. Early diagnosis is important to monitor the condition, take steps to slow the progression of the disease, and protect vision.
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Misconception #5: Most People Who Get AMD Have a Family History of the Disease

Reality: While having a family history of age-related macular degeneration does appear to increase your risk of developing the condition, it is not the only risk factor. Many people who develop AMD do not have a family history of the disease. According to the AAO, additional risk factors for developing AMD include smoking cigarettes, being overweight, and eating a diet high in saturated fat.
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Misconception #6: Loss of Vision Is a Normal Part of Aging

Reality: Of course, some changes in vision do tend to occur as we age. Severe vision loss is not a normal part of aging though. For example, it’s considered normal to gradually lose your ability to see things up close as we age. The condition is called presbyopia and often starts after age 40. Severe changes in vision, on the other hand, are not normal and may indicate an eye disease, such as age-related macular degeneration. Don’t assume changes in vision are just due to aging.
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Misconceptions #7: There Is Nothing I Can Do to Prevent AMD

Reality: Although the reasons why some people develop AMD is not known, certain lifestyle factors are associated with an increased risk of the condition. According to the National Eye Institute, getting regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels may decrease your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.
 
Those are some of the common misconceptions about AMD and low vision. Keep in mind that seeing your eye doctor for regular eye exams is one of the most important things you can do to keep your eyes healthy. A visit to your ophthalmologist is also a great opportunity to ask questions and get the correct information about AMD, low vision, and other eye conditions.
 
If you have any questions about AMD and / or low vision or you would like to schedule an exam with one of our eye doctors, please call our office at 508-746-8600.