Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease associated with aging that gradually destroys sharp, central vision. Central vision is needed for seeing objects clearly and for common daily tasks such as reading and driving.
AMD affects the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine detail. AMD causes no pain.
In some cases, AMD advances so slowly that people notice little change in their vision. In others, the disease progresses faster and may lead to a loss of vision in both eyes. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older.
View the video below to see a simulation of how a person with AMD sees the world. (Double-click the video to start it.)
There are two types of AMD, classified as "wet" and "dry." The most common form is the dry type. Wet AMD, as seen in the animation, occurs when blood vessels growing up from beneath the retina leak blood. Leaked blood pushes on the light receptor cells resulting in damage to the retina.
Dry AMD has three stages, all of which may occur in one or both eyes:
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Early AMD |
People with early AMD have either several small drusen or a few medium-sized drusen. At this stage, there are no symptoms and no vision loss.
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Intermediate AMD |
People with intermediate AMD have either many medium-sized drusen or one or more large drusen. Some people see a blurred spot in the center of their vision. More light may be needed for reading and other tasks.
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Advanced Dry AMD |
In addition to drusen, people with advanced dry AMD have a breakdown of light-sensitive cells and supporting tissue in the central retinal area. This breakdown can cause a blurred spot in the center of your vision. Over time, the blurred spot may get bigger and darker, taking more of your central vision. You may have difficulty reading or recognizing faces until they are very close to you.
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