Macular degeneration is an eye disease that occurs when there’s damage to the central part of the retina, called the macula (responsible for helping you see details of objects in front of you clearly). Also called age-related macular degeneration (AMD), over time the condition leads to vision loss, especially in the central field of vision. It is primarily an age-related condition and there are two types: dry (more common) and wet (less common). Other symptoms of AMD include being unable to see in low light, blurred vision, issues in seeing colors, having blank or dark spots in your vision, and seeing straight lines as wavy.
What Is Macular Degeneration? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and PreventionMedically Reviewed by Daniel S. Casper, MD, PhD | December 22, 2022
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Which type of macular degeneration do you have?
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What are the early signs of macular degeneration?
In the early stages of disease you may have no symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are crucial. If you notice changes to your vision, see a physician immediately.
What are the stages of macular degeneration?
Dry macular degeneration has three stages: early (when the macula is changing, but vision is not affected), intermediate (characterized by blurry vision), and late or advanced (when central vision is completely lost). Wet macular degeneration is always considered advanced.
Can you stop macular degeneration from progressing?
There is no cure for AMD, but treatments can slow down the disease. Injected medications can slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels. And eating more antioxidants and omega-3s in addition to taking certain supplements is associated with better eye health and may help AMD from progressing.
What will your vision look like if you have macular degeneration?
People with AMD may have blurry vision, distorted central vision, a blind spot or see colors differently. But depending on how severe the disease is, not everyone with AMD will have noticeable symptoms.
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Lynn Grieger is a registered dietitian-nutritionist, certified diabetes care and education specialist, certified personal trainer, and certified health and wellness coach. She comp...
Michael W. Stewart, MD, is professor and chairman of ophthalmology at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, and the Knights Templar Eye Foundation Professor of Ophthalmology Resear...
Brittni Scruggs, MD, PhD, is an adult and pediatric vitreoretinal surgeon at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Scruggs teaches medical ...
Ghazala O'Keefe, MD, is an assistant professor of ophthalmology at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, where she also serves as the section director for uveitis and as ...
Daniel S. Casper, MD, PhD, is a professor emeritus of ophthalmology and a senior lecturer in ophthalmology at Columbia University. He teaches medical students at Columbia's Vagelos...
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