ARMD is the leading cause of blindness in the Western world in individuals over 60 years of age and as yet, the causes are still unclear. There are two types:

DRY ARMD is the commonest, accounting for 90% of cases. It is slow to progress but does not as yet respond to treatment, although stem cell research may hold the key to treating this condition.

WET ARMD is less common but often has severe effects – in some cases all central vision can be lost in a few days due to the damaging effects of rogue new blood vessels in the retina.

Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure and poor diet – there can also be a hereditary component.

Research shows brightly coloured fruits and vegetables (such as mangoes, spinach, peas and tomatoes) are rich in

beneficial anti-oxidants, and these, as well as supplements containing Lutein, Zeaxanthin and Zinc may reduce risk. New lens technology such as Blue Light Filter from Adidas can also have a protective capacity.

Symptoms may include: reduced or impaired central vision, distortion of straight lines, difficulty reading and reduced colour perception.

Treatment ranges from simple lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking and improving diet, to injections and laser procedures for wet ARMD.

As with Diabetic Retinopathy treatment aims to stop the progression of the disease, rather than to restore vision.

For patients suffering visual loss, Low Vision Aids may be useful. Images A and B courtesy of Mr Y. Yang, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, Wolverhampton Eye Infirmary and Nuffield Hospitals.