Top AMD
Questions

A:   AMD is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss, especially in people over 40. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina that helps you see fine details clearly. 

AMD progresses over time and can lead to severe, irreversible vision impairment if left untreated. AMD can significantly impact your ability to read, drive, or see faces, but early detection and care can help preserve vision and improve quality of life. 

A:   AMD has 2 types: dry and wet, with dry AMD being the most common. Dry AMD progresses through 3 stages—early (no noticeable symptoms), intermediate (possible mild blurriness or low-light difficulty) and late (blurry or blank spots in central vision). Wet AMD is a less common but more severe late-stage form that develops when abnormal blood vessels damage the macula, causing rapid vision loss. While late dry AMD has no treatment, wet AMD offers treatment options to slow vision loss. Early detection is crucial for managing progression and protecting your sight.

A:   AMD is influenced by a combination of age, genetics and lifestyle factors. Aging and family history are major risk factors, particularly for Caucasians. The most significant modifiable risk factor is smoking, which greatly increases the risk of AMD and its progression. Other contributing factors include poor diet and obesity. A Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce AMD risk, while high intake of saturated fats and cholesterol may increase it. Managing these factors, especially by quitting smoking and adopting a healthy lifestyle, can help lower the risk of AMD.

A:   Currently, there is no cure for AMD, but there are treatments that can help slow its progression and manage symptoms.

A:   AREDS stands for the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, a major clinical research initiative conducted by the National Eye Institute. This study investigated how specific vitamins and minerals could help slow the progression of AMD.

The original AREDS formula demonstrated that high-dose antioxidants (vitamins C, E and beta-carotene) combined with zinc could reduce the risk of AMD progression by 25% in patients with intermediate AMD or advanced AMD in one eye.

However, the AREDS2 study refined this formula by removing beta-carotene (due to its association with lung cancer in smokers) and adding lutein and zeaxanthin, which are carotenoids found in leafy greens and other colorful vegetables. 

AREDS 2 supplements are specifically formulated to help protect against advanced AMD and vision loss, providing key nutrients that support eye health. Diet alone may not be enough to manage your AMD. 

A:   Certain vitamins and minerals have been shown to help slow the progression of AMD, particularly those included in the AREDS2 formula, such as those found in products like AREDS 2 eye vitamins.

The key nutrients in the AREDS 2 eye vitamins include: 

• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that helps protect eye cells from damage
• Vitamin E: Another antioxidant that works alongside vitamin C
• Lutein and zeaxanthin: Carotenoids found in leafy greens that help filter harmful blue light and support macular health. These replaced beta-carotene in the AREDS 2 formula, reducing the risk of lung cancer for smokers. 
• Zinc: Helps maintain retinal health and supports the enzymes that protect against AMD progression
• Copper: Included to balance the high zinc levels and prevent copper deficiency

AREDS 2 eye vitamins are not a cure but can significantly reduce the risk of AMD progression when taken as part of a comprehensive care plan. It’s important to talk to your eye doctor to determine if AREDS 2 supplements are right for you. 

A:   Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, mackerel and sardines), leafy greens (spinach, kale and collard greens), colorful fruits and vegetables (rich in lutein and zeaxanthin), nuts and whole grains are beneficial for AMD. These foods are high in antioxidants, which can support eye health and reduce the risk of AMD progression. Diet alone may not be enough to manage your AMD. Speak to your doctor about taking an AREDS 2 supplement as well as diet changes.

A:   The Mediterranean diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, whole grains and healthy fats like olive oil, is associated with a 41% reduced risk of advanced AMD. This diet supports overall eye health through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich foods. Diet alone may not be enough to manage your AMD. Speak to your doctor about taking an AREDS 2 supplement as well as diet changes.

A:   Avoid foods high in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol, such as fried foods, processed snacks and fatty meats. A high intake of these can increase the risk of AMD progression. Additionally, maintaining a healthy body weight can further protect against AMD.

A:   The best plan for AMD plan depends on its type and stage. For intermediate and advanced AMD, AREDS 2 eye vitamins (including vitamins C, E, lutein, zeaxanthin and zinc) may help slow the disease’s progression.

For wet AMD, special medications called anti-VEGF treatments are the most effective. These are given as eye injections to stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels, helping to preserve vision and sometimes improve it. Early diagnosis is important, so talk to your eye doctor about the best way to manage your AMD and protect your vision.