Your Opticians Appointment

You'll be seen by an optometrist, who'll ask you to look into a large microscope so they can examine the back of your eyes and check your vision. They may use eye drops to get a clearer view, which can leave your vision blurry for a few hours — avoid driving until it returns to normal, which can take at least 4 hours.

Referral to a Specialist

You may be referred to an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) or specialist service, usually within a week, where further tests such as a scan of the back of the eye may be carried out.

Dry AMD and Wet AMD

If you're diagnosed with AMD, your specialist will explain what type and stage it is, and the treatment options available. If you have late AMD, you may go on to develop wet AMD. Dry AMD, the more common form, is caused by a build-up of a fatty substance called drusen at the back of the eye, usually worsens gradually over several years, and currently has no specific treatment unless it develops into wet AMD. Wet AMD, less common, is caused by abnormal blood vessels growing at the back of the eye, can worsen quickly — sometimes within days or weeks — but treatment is available to help slow vision loss.

It's completely normal to find it hard to take everything in at your appointment — write down any questions that come to mind afterwards, and book a further appointment to go through them. The Macular Society offers useful information and a helpline on 0300 3030 111.

Treating Wet AMD

There's no cure for AMD, but treatment and support can help slow changes to your vision and support your quality of life — the right approach depends on the stage and type you have, with support from specialists including an optometrist and ophthalmologist. Treatments for wet AMD include injections of medicine (anti-VEGF) given directly into the eye, or light treatment to destroy the abnormal blood vessels responsible.

Dry AMD and Ongoing Research

There's currently no specific treatment for dry AMD, but support is available to help you live well with it, including low-vision help and lifestyle changes. Research into new AMD treatments is ongoing, and your specialist can let you know about any studies you might be able to take part in.

Help with Low Vision

If daily activities are becoming difficult, ask your eye specialist about a referral to a low-vision clinic, where staff can advise on useful devices like magnifying lenses, home adaptations such as brighter lighting, and software or apps to make computers and phones easier to use. If both eyes are affected, you may also be referred for eccentric viewing training, which teaches techniques to make the best use of remaining vision.

Staying Healthy

Since AMD is often linked to lifestyle, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit, fish and leafy green vegetables, exercising regularly, losing weight if needed, and stopping smoking can all help. Some evidence suggests certain supplements may help slow AMD progression, though these aren't suitable for everyone — always speak to a GP or your specialist before starting one.

Driving

AMD can make driving unsafe — ask your specialist for their view. You're legally required to tell the DVLA if AMD affects both eyes, or affects one eye where your remaining vision falls below the minimum standard for driving.

Monitoring and Registering Sight Loss

You'll likely have regular specialist check-ups to monitor your condition — contact your specialist promptly, ideally the same day, if your vision worsens or you notice new symptoms. It's still important to keep having routine eye tests every 2 years too, since these can pick up other eye problems your AMD check-ups don't cover. If your vision continues to decline, you may want to consider registering as sight impaired, which can make it easier to access financial support such as help with health costs — your specialist can assess you and complete the relevant certificate if you qualify.

Getting Support

Living with AMD can be genuinely difficult, and connecting with others can help — the Macular Society (helpline 0300 3030 111) and RNIB (helpline 0303 123 9999) both offer support specifically for people affected by sight loss. See a GP if you've been feeling low for more than two weeks, since support and treatment are available.