What is macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration, often referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula – the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. This condition gradually deteriorates the macula, leading to a loss of central vision while peripheral vision remains intact. Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss among individuals aged 50 and older. Macular degeneration is commonly categorized into two types: dry and wet. Dry AMD progresses gradually over time as retinal cells gradually deteriorate. On the other hand, wet AMD manifests rapidly due to blood vessel damage. While both types can lead to vision impairment and present challenges in daily life, neither typically results in complete blindness.Symptoms of macular degeneration
Symptoms of macular degeneration may vary depending on the stage of the disease, but often include:- Blurred or distorted vision; straight lines may appear wavy or distorted, and objects may appear blurry
- Loss of central vision; this can affect activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces
- Dark or empty areas in central vision, individuals may notice dark spots or gaps in their central field of vision
- Changes in color perception; colors may appear less vibrant or washed out
