Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is common a common cause of vision loss in people over age 60.  You may already have it.  Or you may be concerned because you're at risk for it.  Read on to find out more about this condition, and how to treat it, adapt to it, or decrease your risk for developing it.

 

What You May See

AMD can cause loss of sharp central vision in one or both eyes.  With AMD, you may have no obvious vision loss.  Or you may have one or more of the following vision problems:

• Fuzzy or blurry areas
• Distorted lines and wavy edges
• Faded color vision
• Dark spots in your central vision
• Vision that varies from day to day

 

How You May Feel

The thought of vision loss can be frightening.  You may fear going blind.  Or you may worry about being unable to drive, read, or be independent.  Although AMD can cause vision loss that ranges from mild to severe, it rarely causes total blindness.  Some aspects of your life may change, but AMD won't make your world go dark.

 

What You Can Do 

Whether you have AMD or are at risk for it, there are ways you can protect the vision that you have.  Vision monitoring and regular eye exams can help you and your eye doctor work together to preserve your vision.  In some cases, laser treatment may keep AMD from getting worse.  Changes in your lifestyle can help protect your eye health.  There are many things you can do to adapt to vision changes if they occur.