What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a common eye disease that causes progressive damage to the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It is the leading cause of vision loss in people over age 50 and can make everyday activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces more difficult.

This condition primarily affects your central vision, leaving peripheral vision intact, which means you may still be able to see shapes or movement out of the corners of your eyes.

Where is the macula?

The macula is located in the center of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. The retina instantly converts light or an image into electrical impulses. The retina then sends these impulses, or nerve signals, to the brain.

1. Dry AMD (also called atrophic AMD)
   This is the most common form, accounting for around 80–90% of AMD cases. It progresses slowly and occurs when the macula thins with age and small clumps of protein called drusen form.

2. Wet AMD (also called neovascular AMD)
   This less common but more severe form happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak blood or fluid. It can cause sudden and serious vision loss.

AMD has three stages, all of which may occur in one or both eyes.

1. Early AMD. People with early AMD have either several small drusen or a few medium-sized drusen. At this stage, there are no symptoms and no vision loss.
2. Intermediate AMD. People with intermediate AMD have either many medium-sized drusen or one or more large drusen. Some people see a blurred spot in the center of their vision. More light may be needed for reading and other tasks.
3. Advanced AMD. In addition to drusen, people with advanced dry AMD experience geographic atrophy, which is a gradual breakdown of the light-sensitive cells and supporting tissue in the central retinal area. This breakdown causes a blurred spot in the center of your vision. Over time, the blurred spot may get bigger and darker, taking more of your central vision.

While the exact cause is not fully understood, AMD is believed to result from a mix of genetics, age, and lifestyle factors. You may be at higher risk if you:

• Are over age 50

• Have a family history of AMD

• Smoke or have smoked in the past

• Have high blood pressure or cardiovascular issues

• Eat a diet low in leafy greens and antioxidants

Macular degeneration is painless and gradual, especially in the early stages. You might notice:

• Blurry or fuzzy vision

• Straight lines appearing wavy

• Difficulty reading or seeing in low light

• Trouble recognizing faces

• A dark or empty area in the center of vision

Learn more in our post:
👉 How to Use the Amsler Grid to Monitor Macular Degeneration

While there is no cure, early detection and lifestyle changes can slow progression. Depending on the type of AMD, your doctor may recommend:

• AREDS2 vitamins to slow dry AMD

• Anti-VEGF injections to treat wet AMD

• Low vision aids and rehabilitation

• Healthy eating and exercise to support eye health

🔗 Learn more about the Science

An eye care professional can detect AMD with:

• A dilated eye exam

• Use of the Amsler Grid

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans

• Fluorescein angiography for wet AMD

Early detection is key. Talk to your eye doctor if you notice any changes in your vision.

A diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. The Support Sight Foundation offers tools, resources, and community for those living with AMD and their loved ones.

📘 Download: 5 Ways Caregivers Can Support Someone with Macular Degeneration

🎧 Listen to the MyMacDLife Podcast

A diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. The Support Sight Foundation offers tools, resources, and community for those living with AMD and their loved ones.

📘 Download: 5 Ways Caregivers Can Support Someone with Macular Degeneration

🎧 Listen to the MyMacDLife Podcast