Macular Degeneration Monitoring in Hamilton, ON
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe, permanent vision loss in Canadians over 50. It damages the macula — the small central area of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision — making it progressively harder to read, drive, and recognize faces. While AMD cannot be cured, early detection and monitoring can significantly protect your functional vision.
At You & Eye Optometry on Fennell Ave E, Hamilton Mountain, we use advanced OCT retinal imaging to detect AMD at the earliest possible stage and monitor it closely, providing referrals to retinal specialists when treatment is indicated.
Dry vs. Wet AMD
Dry AMD (85-90% of cases)
Gradual thinning and deterioration of the macula with drusen deposits. Progresses slowly over years. Can convert to wet AMD.
Wet AMD (10-15% of cases)
Abnormal blood vessels under the retina leak fluid, causing rapid and severe central vision loss. Requires urgent treatment.
Wet AMD can cause significant vision loss within days to weeks without treatment. If you notice sudden distortion or a grey spot in your central vision, contact us immediately or go to an emergency department.
Risk Factors for AMD
- Age: Risk increases significantly after 50 and rises sharply after 65
- Smoking: Smokers have 2-4 times the AMD risk
- Family history: First-degree relatives with AMD double your risk
- Cardiovascular disease: High blood pressure and high cholesterol are associated with AMD
- UV exposure: Cumulative sun exposure is a risk factor
How We Monitor AMD
OCT retinal imaging is the gold standard for AMD monitoring. It allows us to precisely measure retinal thickness, detect and quantify drusen deposits, identify fluid accumulation, and track changes from visit to visit. Monitoring frequency depends on AMD severity — from annual for early dry AMD to every 6 months for intermediate AMD.
AMD Treatment and Referrals in Hamilton
AREDS2 nutritional supplements (vitamins C, E, lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc) are recommended for patients with intermediate or advanced dry AMD and have been shown to reduce progression risk. Wet AMD is treated with anti-VEGF injections (Eylea, Lucentis, Vabysmo) by a retinal specialist — we refer urgently to the Hamilton Regional Eye Institute when wet AMD conversion is detected.
Home Monitoring with the Amsler Grid
Patients with intermediate dry AMD should monitor their central vision daily with an Amsler grid to detect the distortion that signals wet AMD conversion. We provide grids and instruction at your appointment. Any sudden change warrants an immediate call to our office.