Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over age 60. The macula corresponds to the center of the retina, and it is responsible for our central vision. There are two forms of AMD, dry and wet.   The dry form of AMD is more common, and many people do not even realize that they have it. Deposits called drusen appear in the macula, which can result in a slow deterioration in vision over time. However, in some cases, the dry form can change to the wet form, which can have a dramatic effect on vision.   In the wet form of AMD, new and abnormal vessels form and begin to leak blood or fluid in the macula, which can lead to rapid changes in vision, such as distortions, or large “spots”.   Risk factors for AMD include age, smoking, and a family history of macular degeneration, Caucasian ethnicity, and history of AMD in one eye, elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure, female gender, and obesity.At Insight eye clinic we recommend annual eye examinations so that we can determine if you have macular degeneration. If you have the dry form of AMD, there is no treatment, but supplements with antioxidants (vitamins C,E, zinc , lutein,and beta-carotene) may decrease the risk of developing wet AMD, and UV protection and refraining from smoking is emphasized. High doses of beta carotene have been shown to increase the risk of developing lung cancer in people who have a history of smoking.   Ask your Doctor for a recommendation. If you are diagnosed with wet AMD, we will co-manage your disease with a retina specialist for additional tests and treatment.