What it means
Usually called age-related macular degeneration (AMD), it is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Central vision becomes blurred or distorted, and a dark spot may appear in the center, while side vision stays. The dry form progresses slowly; the wet form, with leaking new blood vessels, can cause fast vision loss and is treated with injections into the eye. Smoking is a major risk factor.
For the nurse
Approach the client from the side where they see best, use bright light and large print, and keep the room's layout the same. Teach clients to check each eye with an Amsler grid and report new wavy lines.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | AMD, ARMD |
|---|---|
| Spanish | degeneración macular |
| Also written | age-related macular degeneration, AMD |
Related terms
glaucoma
An eye disease in which the optic nerve is damaged, usually with raised pressure inside the eye, leading to loss of vision.
retinopathy
Disease or damage of the retina, the light-sensing layer at the back of the eye.
ocul/o
A word root that means eye; ophthalm/o means eye too.