What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-Related Macular degeneration is an eye disease. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in adults after age 50. One or both eyes may be affected. The macula (the part of the eye that controls central, detailed vision) becomes damaged. Central vision becomes limited. However, side vision remains clear. There are two types of macular degeneration: "dry" and "wet."

Dry Macular Degeneration

Dry is the most common type of macular degeneration. In the early stages, changes in vision may be hard to notice. Over time, your central vision may slowly worsen. You may notice wavy lines and blank spots in the center of your vision. Colors may look dim. There is no way to restore vision lost from dry macular degeneration. But you need to monitor it because it can turn into wet macular degeneration.

Wet Macular Degeneration

Wet macular degeneration is less common but more serious. Vision loss is quick and severe. You may suddenly notice dark spots, blank spots, wavy lines, and dim colors in the center of your vision. If wet macular degeneration is caught early, laser treatment may help slow further vision loss.