What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular Degeneration is 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 and perform activities such as reading and driving. When the macula does not function correctly, your central vision can be affected by blurriness, dark areas or distortion. Macular degeneration affects your ability to see near and far, and can make some activities-like threading a needle or reading-difficult or impossible.

Although macular degeneration reduces vision in the central part of the retina, it does not effect the eye's side, or peripheral vision. For example, you could see the outline of a clock but not be able to tell what time it is. Macular degeneration alone does not result in total blindness. Even in more advanced cases, people continue to have some useful vision and are often able to take care of themselves.

What Causes Macular Degeneration?

Many older people develop macular degeneration as part of the body's natural aging process. Exactly why it develops is not known. There are different kinds of macular problems, but the most common is age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

"Dry" Macular Degeneration

Most people have the "dry" form of AMD. It is caused by aging and a thinning of the tissues of the macula. Vision loss is usually gradual.

"Wet" Macular Degeneration

The "wet" form of macular degeneration accounts for about 10% of all AMD cases. 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?

When both eyes are affected, the loss of central vision may be noticed more quickly. Words on a page may look blurred, a dark or empty area may appear in the center of vision, or straight lines may look distorted.

How Is Macular Degeneration Diagnosed And Treated?

The ophthalmologists at Newsom Eye & Laser Center can detect early stages of AMD during an eye examination. Nutritional supplements, injections, and laser surgery are the most common ways to treat macular degeneration. The retinal specialist on staff will discuss and determine which treatment is best for you.