What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is an eye disease that affects a small but very important part of your eye called the macula. The macula is in the center of the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye). It helps you see fine details clearly.
When someone has macular degeneration, their central vision becomes blurry or distorted. This makes it hard to:
- Read books
- Recognize faces
- Drive
- See details clearly
It usually does not cause total blindness. People can maintain their peripheral vision (side vision).
Who Gets Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration mostly affects older adults. That’s why it is often called: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over age 50.
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Are over 50
- Smoke
- Have a family history of macular degeneration
- Have high blood pressure
- Eat an unhealthy diet
Types of Macular Degeneration
There are two main types:
1. Dry Macular Degeneration (More Common)
- Happens slowly over time
- Caused by thinning of the macula and the accumulation of drusen (waste products from cellular activity in the retina)
- Vision gradually becomes blurry
About 80–90% of people with AMD have this type.
2. Wet Macular Degeneration (Less Common but More Serious)
- Happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina
- These vessels can leak fluid or blood
- Vision loss can happen quickly
Wet AMD needs medical treatment right away. So, if you notice a change in your vision such as straight lines looking crooked or missing letters when reading, you want to call you doctor.
What Are the Symptoms?
People with macular degeneration may notice:
- Blurry or fuzzy central vision
- Straight lines looking wavy
- A dark or empty spot in the center of vision
- Trouble seeing in low light
If these symptoms appear suddenly, it’s important to see an eye doctor quickly.
Can It Be Cured?
There is no cure yet, but doctors can slow it down.
For dry AMD:
- Special vitamins (AREDS 2 Formula) may help slow progression.
For wet AMD:
- Doctors may give eye injections to stop abnormal blood vessels from growing.
Early detection is very important.
Can You Help Prevent It?
You can lower your risk by:
- Not smoking
- Eating leafy green vegetables (like spinach and kale)
- Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes
- Exercising regularly
- Getting regular eye exams
Why Is the Macula So Important?
Think of the macula as the “HD camera” of your eye. It helps you see fine details clearly. Without it, things in the center of your vision become blurry, even if your side vision still works.
Final Thoughts
Macular degeneration is a common eye condition that mostly affects older adults. It can make everyday tasks harder, but early detection and treatment can help protect vision.
Taking care of your eyes today can help you see clearly for years to come.
The doctors at Summit Eye Center are skilled at the diagnosis and management of patients with macular degeneration. Call one of our three locations (Lee's Summit, Sedalia or Warsaw) to schedule an examination.