How Quickly Does Macular Degeneration Progress

If you have been diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), you likely have some questions. One common question is how quickly the condition progresses and whether you will lose your vision completely. 

According to the National Eye Institute, age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults, but there are many variables that affect if and when someone loses their vision.
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There is no exact answer to how fast macular degeneration progresses, but experts can shed some light on general rates of progression, what slows the condition, and what someone recently diagnosed with the disease should consider. 
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What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that affects the central part of the retina called the macula. The macula becomes damaged, which leads to central vision loss. Center vision allows you to do activities, such as read and drive.

There are two types of macular degeneration, including: 

Dry AMD: This form of macular degeneration occurs as the macula becomes thinner with age. Also, small clumps of a protein called drusen grow. This causes deterioration of the macula. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, about 80 percent of people with macular degeneration have dry AMD.  

Wet AMD: Wet AMD is a less common form of macular degeneration, but it can progress faster. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina. The vessels leak blood and scar the macula. 
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How fast does macular degeneration typically progress? 

There is no set timeline for macular degeneration. The rate of progression depends on different factors, such as: 

• Type of macular degeneration 
• When treatment is started 
• Response to treatment 

The type of AMD may affect how fast the condition progresses and leads to vision loss. Wet age-related macular degeneration may progress faster than dry AMD. 

The sooner treatment starts, the better. For example, if someone starts treatment during the early stages of macular degeneration, they may slow the progression of the disease better than if they begin treatment in the late stage. 

A person’s individual response to treatment also varies. Similar to other diseases, some people respond better to treatment than others. It is difficult to predict who will have a favorable treatment response. 

The bottom line is it’s challenging to determine a rate of progression, but many people who get treatment slow the progression of the disease and maintain vision for many years. 
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Can macular degeneration be cured? 

Currently, macular degeneration does not have a cure. However, treatments are available, and you can also make lifestyle changes and take steps to cope with the diagnosis. Taking certain steps can help preserve vision for as long as possible. It can also provide you with strategies to deal with some degree of vision loss if it develops. 

The following can be helpful to slow the progress of age-related macular degeneration: 

• Take AREDS-2 vitamins
• Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, nuts, and plant oils 
• Quit smoking 
• Get regular comprehensive eye exams to monitor disease progression 
• Wear sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV rays
• Get regular exercise
• Maintain a healthy weight 

Research continues on age-related macular degeneration. In the future, new treatments may provide a cure. In the meantime, taking the steps above can help.

If you have concerns about age-related macular degeneration, we are happy to answer any questions. Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.