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Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Your Future?
Perhaps you've heard of the term, or know someone who’s been diagnosed with it: macular degeneration. It's a chronic, slow, progressive and painless condition that causes the cells in the macula — an area of the retina where the photoreceptors are most dense — to break down, leading to loss of central vision.
What to watch for
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the vision of more than 15 million Americans and is the leading cause of visual impairment of those age 55 and older. Wondering if you may have AMD? In its early stages, there may not be any symptoms, but in the later stages, you may notice:
- Objects, print and faces may become blurry, hazy or distorted.
- A blind spot in the center of your vision.
- You need more light to read.
- While reading, some of the letters or words may be missing.
- Colors may not seem as vivid.
- Straight lines may appear wavy.
Regular eye exams are the only means of detecting and monitoring macular degeneration, as often symptoms go unnoticed. The effects of AMD can be minimized with early treatment, so make sure to talk with your doctor.
Learn about your AMD risk, how your doctor tests for it, treatment options and how to potentially reduce your risk. Plus, discover the special services and tools that are available for people with low vision.
>> Learn more about age-related macular degeneration.
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