Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a deterioration of the macula, the 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 or driving. It is a common cause of vision loss in people over age 60. AMD can cause loss of sharp central vision in one or both eyes. AMD does not cause complete blindness, but may cause loss of central vision. You may notice blurry areas in your vision,
distorted lines, faded color vision, dark spots, and vision that varies from day to day. In some cases, however, you may not experience vision loss right away. There are two kinds of AMD, wet and dry. There is no cure for AMD, and no current treatment for dry macular degeneration, but we recommend a healthy diet and nutritional supplements as an effective precaution against this condition.

Dry macular degeneration may cause a slow decline in vision over time. Damages include the breakdown of light-sensing cells and may also lead to the formation of yellow deposits under the retina, which may cause distorted or blurry vision. Although dry macular degeneration is
more common, it can sometimes develop into wet macular degeneration.

Wet macular degeneration may cause a sudden loss of central vision. The growth of abnormal blood vessels in this area may cause the macula to bulge, which will distort vision. Fluid leaking from these weak blood vessels or scarring on the surface of the retina can cause dark or blurred spots in your vision.

Although the exact causes of macular degeneration are not fully understood, antioxidant vitamins and zinc may reduce the impact of AMD in some people. Low vision devices may help people manage their daily activities if central vision is damaged in both eyes.

Treatments for wet macular degeneration include:

• Laser surgery
• Retinal eye surgery
• Injectable medication
• Low vision rehabilitation
• Low vision aids