Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD)

Dry age‑related macular degeneration develops when yellow deposits called drusen accumulate and cause the macula to thin over time, leading to gradual central vision loss. The disease progresses slowly and often causes painless decline. There is no treatment for early dry AMD, but the advanced form known as geographic atrophy now has new drugs such as Syfovre and Izervay and investigational therapies including ANX007, elamipretide, AVD‑104 and tinlarebant【152519918134788†screenshot】. Early detection, AREDS2 vitamins and healthy lifestyle habits may help slow progression【282166776001356†L174-L183】.

A comprehensive eye exam with dilation allows your doctor to look for drusen deposits and thinning of the macula. High-resolution scans such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and sometimes fluorescein angiography help monitor progression. Regular follow‑up visits and home checks using an Amsler grid or smartphone-based visual tests can detect subtle changes early.

People with dry AMD may notice blurred or dim central vision, difficulty reading small print, trouble recognizing faces, or a need for brighter light to do close work. Straight lines may appear wavy, and colors can look faded. Key risk factors include being over 55, having a family history of AMD, being Caucasian, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and a diet low in leafy greens and fish.

There is currently no cure for dry AMD, but progression can be slowed. Management focuses on taking AREDS2 vitamin supplements, quitting smoking, maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol, and wearing UV-blocking sunglasses. Your doctor may prescribe low-vision aids and discuss new drugs for geographic atrophy such as Syfovre and Izervay or investigational therapies like ANX007, elamipretide, AVD‑104 and tinlarebant.

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of dry AMD or slow its progression. Eat a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, berries, nuts, fish and other foods high in antioxidants and omega‑3 fatty acids. Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control, and quit smoking. Wear sunglasses and wide‑brimmed hats to protect your eyes from UV light.

Use an Amsler grid at home every week to check for wavy lines or blank spots in your vision. If you notice any new distortion, dark spots or vision changes, contact your eye doctor right away. Ask about low‑vision aids and smartphone-based apps that can help you monitor changes between visits, and connect with support groups to maintain your independence.