Macular Degeneration

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Macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that causes a deterioration or breakdown of the macula. The macula is a small area in the retina at the back of the eye that allows you to see fine details clearly. When the macula doesn’t function properly, the central vision of your eye can be affected by blurriness, dark areas or distortion. Macular degeneration affects the ability to see near and far, and can make some activities, such as reading or sewing, difficult or impossible. Macular degeneration can develop as part of the body’s natural aging process.

About Macular Degeneration

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Macular Degeneration Overview

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What are the different types of macular degeneration?

There are two common types of age-related macular degeneration:

“Dry” Macular Degeneration

Most people have the “dry” form of macular degeneration. It is caused by aging and thinning of the tissue of the macula. Vision loss is usually gradual.

“Wet” Macular Degeneration

The “wet” form of macular degeneration is a less common form. It results when abnormal blood vessels form underneath the retina at the back of the eye. These new blood vessels leak fluid or blood and blur central vision. Vision loss may be rapid and severe.

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

Symptoms of macular degeneration include:

Words on a page look blurred
A dark or empty area appears in the center of vision
Straight lines look distorted

How is macular degeneration treated?

Once your macular degeneration has reached an advanced state, there is no treatment that can prevent vision loss. However, it can be treated by taking antioxidants and zinc since they can help to reduce the risk of getting advanced macular degeneration significantly. It can also be treated with intravitreal injections, laser treatments or surgery.