{"id":1640,"date":"2024-07-08T11:55:57","date_gmt":"2024-07-08T09:55:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eyeside.at\/age-related-macular-degeneration\/"},"modified":"2026-05-18T09:43:33","modified_gmt":"2026-05-18T07:43:33","slug":"age-related-macular-degeneration","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/eyeside.at\/en\/medical-conditions\/age-related-macular-degeneration\/","title":{"rendered":"Age-related macular degeneration"},"content":{"rendered":"

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)<\/strong> is a disease of the center of the retina. It affects the so-called macula<\/strong>, the “point of sharpest vision.” This disease involves a loss of function in the sensory cells, leading to vision loss in the center of the visual field. While reading ability decreases and recognizing faces becomes more difficult, the ability to orient oneself externally (peripheral vision) is generally preserved.<\/p>\n

The two forms of AMD<\/strong><\/p>\n

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    • Dry AMD<\/strong> (approx. 80% of cases): Metabolic deposits, known as drusen, form under the retina. The retina and the underlying pigment epithelium become thinner over time. Since this process is gradual and the other eye often compensates for the visual impairment for a long time, dry AMD frequently remains unnoticed for years.<\/li>\n
    • Wet AMD<\/strong>: In this case, abnormal blood vessels grow from deeper layers under the retina. Because these vessels are leaky, fluid or blood escapes. The macula swells (macular edema<\/strong>). A typical warning sign is metamorphopsia: straight lines (e.g., window frames or tile joints) suddenly appear distorted or wavy. In these cases, vision can deteriorate very quickly, which is why immediate treatment by an ophthalmologist is vital for preserving eyesight.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      We recommend daily self-monitoring<\/strong> for AMD patients using the Amsler grid<\/strong> (a simple grid of lines). As soon as you notice that lines appear distorted or dark spots appear in the center, please schedule an emergency appointment immediately.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

      Frequently asked questions about age-related macular degeneration (AMD)<\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div>