What to Expect at Your First AMD Visit

Verywell Health: What information about symptoms and lifestyle could a person bring to their first age-related macular degeneration (AMD) appointment to help you make an accurate diagnosis?

Dr. Wolynski: It’s important to describe when you first noticed any alterations in your vision and if the symptoms are in the center or the periphery [the outer boundaries], as AMD affects central vision. Other [helpful] information [includes] if you are or have ever experienced flashes of light or floaters.

Also, note how long these changes have persisted—was it sudden or over time? Note the overall quality of what you’re seeing. For instance, let the doctor know if your central vision appears blurred, darkened, or as though you’re looking through tape or Vaseline, and whether this effect remains fixed or shifts around. Details such as whether areas of vision are stringy, circular, or [have a] bug-like appearance and move around vs. a stable, abstract pattern also can help refine the diagnosis. 

Additionally, you want to mention if straight lines—like those on a doorway or picture frame—seem wavy or distorted. Sharing any family history of AMD, is valuable, as well as mentioning difficulties with activities in daily life, such as reading, using your computer, or driving. 

Finally, lifestyle factors—such as current or past smoking habits, diet, exercise routines, and history of sun exposure without UV [ultraviolet] protection—as well as your overall medical history and previous eye conditions or surgeries, all contribute to a more accurate assessment.

Of note, some individuals with longer periods of AMD may experience visual hallucinations in areas of vision loss. This is known as Charles Bonnet syndrome, and although it might feel unsettling, it is an acknowledged phenomenon.

Verywell Health: Is any prep required for a person coming in for an appointment for wet AMD (an advanced form of AMD) symptoms? If so, what kind?

Dr. Wolynski: [Bring] any previous records of your recent eye exams and a report of your current visual changes and any accompanying symptoms. A list of all current medications, supplements, and pertinent health information—including a family history of eye conditions—will also be very useful.

Since there will be diagnostic tests performed like dilated retinal exams and imaging studies, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), you will experience further blurred vision and light sensitivity; so, bringing a pair of dark sunglasses can make you more comfortable, as well as having someone accompany you to the exam and assisting you to get home.

If you wear contact lenses, it would be better to wear your eyeglasses, as there are some tests that will require [contact lens] removal. Also let the doctor know if they are the latest prescription or not.