Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
AMD affects the macula, the small central part of the retina you use to read, recognise faces and see detail. It is a leading cause of poor central vision in people over 60. Side vision usually stays, but straight lines may look bent and a smudge can appear in the centre. The 'wet' type can often be controlled with injections if treated promptly.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ananyabrata Das, MBBS, DOUpdated 24 October 2026
Dry and wet AMD
- Dry AMD (most common): slow thinning of the macula over years. No injection treatment; protect what you have: stop smoking, eat leafy greens and fish, and use specific eye vitamins (AREDS2 formula) when advised.
- Wet AMD: abnormal vessels grow under the macula and leak. Vision can drop over weeks. This is the type treated with injections, and speed matters.
Signs
- Straight lines (door frames, tiles) look wavy
- A blurred or dark patch in the centre
- Needing much brighter light to read
- Faces harder to recognise
Treatment
Anti-VEGF injections into the eye, under numbing drops, dry up the leaking vessels. They are given monthly at first, then spaced out according to the OCT scan. Many people keep reading vision for years with regular treatment. Missing injections lets the disease come back. Low vision aids help those who already have central loss. See retina care.
Book an examination with Dr. Das at Spectra Eye Hospital, Chinar Park (open daily, 9 am – 8 pm): call +91 98308 73460 or book online.
Questions
Can macular degeneration be cured?
No, but wet AMD can usually be controlled with injections, and progression of dry AMD can be slowed.
Will I go blind from AMD?
AMD rarely causes total blindness; side vision usually remains. Central vision is what is at risk.
How many injections will I need?
Usually three monthly injections to start, then as needed based on scans. Many people need them long-term.