What is macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) causes damage to a small part of the retina responsible for central vision, called the macula. When the macula is damaged, it often leads to a loss of fine central vision, making tasks like reading, driving, threading a needle, or recognizing faces difficult. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50.

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What does vision look like with macular degeneration?

▸ Normal vision

▸ Vision with macular degeneration

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What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

▸ Central vision becomes blurry at first, sometimes progressing to complete loss of central vision

▸ Straight lines look "wavy"

▸ Colors (especially pastels) become harder to distinguish

▸ Seeing in dim light becomes more difficult

How can you quickly test yourself to see if you have macular degeneration?

Amsler grid

This grid is a simple self-monitoring tool you can use to detect changes in your vision.

▸ Wear your normal reading glasses

▸ Hold the grid at your normal reading distance

▸ Cover one eye completely and focus on the center dot

▸ Repeat on the other eye

For people with AMD, the Amsler grid may look like it has wavy lines or blank spots.

If you notice any areas on the grid are dark, wavy, blank, or blurry, contact your eye doctor immediately. They will check your AMD and start treatment if appropriate.

Causes of vision loss in macular degeneration

The specific cause of macular degeneration is unknown, but some risk factors include:

▸ Age – People over 60 are at highest risk for the disease

▸ Genetics – Studies have found that some people have a genetic predisposition

▸ Race – The disease is more common in white people

▸ Smoking – Smoking greatly increases your risk

▸ Obesity – Obesity increases the likelihood of developing a more severe form of macular degeneration

▸ Cardiovascular disease – Heart or blood vessel disease increases your risk of developing the disease

How is macular degeneration treated?

There is no cure for macular degeneration. Starting treatment early can slow the progression of the disease and reduce symptoms. Even with successful treatment, symptoms often return. Depending on the type of disease, treatments include nutritional supplements, medications, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and laser therapy.

How can you prevent age-related macular degeneration?

▸ Quit smoking.

▸ Maintain a healthy weight

▸ Stay physically active

▸ Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels

▸ Follow a Mediterranean diet