Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive, painless eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It is the leading cause of severe central vision loss in people over the age of 50 in industrialized countries. Understanding this disease is essential for early and effective management.

What are the Macula and AMD?

The macula is a tiny but essential area of the retina. It allows us to read, recognize faces, and perceive colors with precision.

AMD comes in two main forms:

1. Dry AMD (Atrophic): This is the most common form (about 80–90% of cases). It is characterized by the accumulation of yellowish deposits under the retina called drusen, and by a gradual thinning (atrophy) of light-sensitive cells. Vision loss is usually slow and progressive.
2. Wet AMD (Exudative): Although less common, this form is more aggressive and is responsible for most cases of legal blindness related to AMD. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula (choroidal neovascularization). These vessels are fragile and leak fluid or blood, rapidly damaging the macula and causing sudden and often severe central vision loss.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of AMD

Symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, but may include:

• Blurred or distorted central vision (for example, straight lines appearing wavy)
• A dark or empty spot in the center of vision (scotoma)
• Increased need for light when reading
• Reduced color perception

The condition is typically detected by an optometrist or ophthalmologist through a dilated eye exam, often complemented by Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) or fluorescein angiography.

MacuMira Treatment: A Breakthrough for Dry AMD

Previously, treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration was mainly limited to specific vitamin supplements (AREDS/AREDS2 formula) aimed at slowing its progression.

Today, a new era is opening in the care of dry AMD.

Dry AMD is more than just vision loss. It significantly affects quality of life, making activities such as recognizing faces, reading, or driving at night more difficult.

• Miyosmart (DIMS Technology): These lenses use a central zone for clear vision correction and a peripheral area with hundreds of small defocusing segments. This peripheral defocus sends a signal to the eye to slow axial elongation. It is often the first choice due to its effectiveness, non-invasiveness, and ease of use.

There is now hope.

MacuMira represents the first non-invasive treatment for dry AMD that has demonstrated clinical effectiveness in improving vision. Safe and painless, MacuMira has already helped thousands of patients with dry AMD experience improvements in their visual function.

However, a different approach is required for the more severe form, wet AMD. Treatments are available, including intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents (vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors), which have revolutionized its management.

Despite advances, none of these treatments can currently fully reverse the condition. This is why early detection is essential. It is strongly recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam every year starting at age 60. Do not wait!