February is National AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month

February is National AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month and MediNurse, St. Louis’ premiere provider of private duty nursing care for more than 30 years, reminds the public of the importance of annual eye exams.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition and a leading cause of blindness in older adults. The disease causes damage to the part of the eye called the macula—a small spot near the center of the retina. The macula is essential for sharp, central vision and enables us to see objects directly in our line of sight.

There are several risk factors associated with AMD:

• Over the age of 60—AMD can appear earlier but it is most likely to show up in people over the age of 60.
• Race—AMD is most commonly reported in Caucasians.
• Family History/Genetics—having a family member with AMD puts you at a higher risk.
• Lifestyle Choices—smoking doubles the risk of developing AMD. To help prevent symptoms, maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, keep your blood pressure and your cholesterol levels in check and establish a healthy weight.

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD is the most common type; it causes yellow deposits, called duress in the macula. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, wet AMD, occurs when there’s a growth of abnormal blood vessels from the choroid underneath the macula. These abnormal blood vessels leak blood and fluid into the retina resulting in vision loss. Wet AMD affects between 10-15% of people with AMD and causes the most significant vision loss.

Because AMD can only be diagnosed with a complete eye exam when the pupils are dilated, the American Optometric Association recommends annual eye exams for anyone over the age of 60. There is often a lack of symptoms in the initial stages of AMD, hence the importance of annual eye exams. Currently, there is no cure for AMD; however, early treatment could slow the progression of the disease.

MediNurse is St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing services. MediNurse provides services that are customized to the individual needs of the client or patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.