What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is damage
or breakdown of the macula.
The macula is a small area at
the back of the eye that allows us
to see fine details clearly.
When the macula doesn't function correctly, we experience
blurriness or darkness in the
center of our vision. Macular degeneration affects both distance and close vision, and can make some activities-like threading a needle or reading, difficult or impossible.

Although macular degeneration reduces vision in the central part of the retina, it does not affect the eye's side, or peripheral, vision. For example, you could see the outline of a clock but not be able to tell what time it is.

Macular degeneration alone does not result in total blindness. People continue to have some useful vision and are able to take care of themselves.
 

What Causes Macular Degeneration?

Many older people develop macular degeneration as part of the body's natural aging process. The two most common types of age-related macular degeneration are "dry" (atrophic) and "wet" (exudative).

"Dry" (atrophic)
macular degeneration

Most people have "dry" macular degeneration. It is caused by aging and thinning of the tissues of the macula.

Vision loss is usually gradual.

"Wet" (exudative)
macular degeneration

"Wet" macular degeneration accounts for about 10% of all cases. It results when abnormal blood vessels form at the back of the eye. These new blood vessels leak fluid or blood and blur central vision.

Vision loss may be rapid and severe.