Is Macular Degeneration Hereditary?

When a close relative has age-related macular degeneration (AMD), it is understandable to wonder whether this may have implications for your own eye health. AMD is one of the leading causes of sight loss in the UK and affects more than 700,000 people.

AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for the detailed vision we use for activities such as reading, driving and recognising faces.

Having a family history of AMD can increase your likelihood of developing the condition, although it does not mean that you will necessarily develop it yourself. Understanding the factors associated with AMD can help you make informed choices about your eye health, attend regular eye examinations and seek advice if you notice any changes in your vision.

The Genetic Link in Macular Degeneration

Family history can influence your likelihood of developing AMD. Research shows that people with a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has AMD have a higher risk of developing the condition themselves.

Several inherited genetic variations have been associated with AMD, including genes involved in the body’s immune and inflammatory responses. However, AMD does not usually follow a simple pattern of inheritance, and having these genetic variations does not mean that you will necessarily develop the condition.

AMD is thought to develop through a combination of factors, including genetics, increasing age and lifestyle or environmental influences such as smoking. Understanding your family history can therefore be helpful when discussing your individual eye health and the importance of regular eye examinations with your eye care professional.

Genetic Factors in Wet Macular Degeneration

Most people with AMD have the dry form, which is usually associated with gradual changes in the macula. These can include the development of deposits called drusen and changes to the retinal cells over time. In some people, dry AMD can progress to wet AMD, although this does not happen to everyone. Wet AMD develops when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath or into the macula and leak fluid or blood.

Age, genetics and lifestyle or environmental factors, including smoking, can all contribute to an individual’s risk. The course of AMD varies considerably from person to person, and many people with dry AMD never develop the wet form.

For a clear explanation of the differences between the two forms, read our guide wet vs macular degeneration: what is the difference.

Maintaining Independence and Daily Sight

Changes in central vision can affect everyday activities such as reading small print, using digital screens and seeing fine detail. If you have a family history of AMD, you may also have questions about how changes in your vision could affect activities such as driving.

AMD can sometimes cause straight lines to appear wavy or distorted and may reduce the clarity of central vision. If you notice new or worsening changes in your sight, it is important to arrange an eye assessment rather than wait for your next routine appointment. Your eye care professional can assess your vision, advise whether any further investigation is needed and discuss any implications for driving.

You can find more detailed information about eyesight standards and practical guidance in our resource on macular degeneration and driving.

Practical Steps to Protect Your Retina

While you cannot change your genetic background or age, there are steps you can take that may support your overall eye health and help reduce some of the modifiable risk factors associated with AMD.

Regular eye examinations as recommended by your eye health care professional  are particularly important if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. Early AMD may not cause noticeable symptoms, so routine checks can help identify changes that you may not be aware of and allow your eye care professional to advise you on appropriate monitoring.

A balanced diet can also support eye health. Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale contain lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients naturally found in the macula. Eating fish, including oily fish, as part of a healthy diet may also be beneficial. Current evidence supports obtaining these nutrients through a healthy diet, while omega-3 supplements themselves have not been shown to prevent or slow AMD.

Smoking is one of the most important modifiable risk factors for AMD. People who smoke have a higher risk of developing the condition, so stopping smoking can be an important step for both your eye health and your general health.

It is also sensible to protect your eyes from excessive ultraviolet exposure. When outdoors in bright sunlight, choose good-quality sunglasses that block 99–100% of UVA and UVB radiation. Sunglasses are recommended for general eye protection, although the evidence linking UV protection specifically with prevention of AMD is less certain.

Take Control of Your Eye Health Today

Knowing that AMD runs in your family can help you be more aware of your eye health and the importance of regular eye examinations.

At Optegra, our specialist teams provide consultant-led care for macular health, including support for early management, dry AMD treatment at our London, Manchester, Colchester and Hampshire hospitals, and wet AMD treatment at our Manchester and Yorkshire hospitals. Book a consultation with an Optegra ophthalmic consultant today to safeguard your vision for the future.