Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration causes deterioration of the macula, the central part of the retina that allows you to see fine details clearly and perform activities such as reading and driving. Many people can develop macular degeneration as the eye ages.

Macular Degeneration Symptoms

Symptoms can vary among people who have macular degeneration. Initially the condition may be hardly noticeable. Later, macular degeneration can cause the following symptoms:

  • Blurriness especially in your central vision
  • Blank spots appear in the center of vision
  • Straight lines look bent or distorted

Treatment Options for Macular Degeneration

There is no cure for macular degeneration, but treatments can slow progression of the disease and sometime lead to improved vision. Vitamin supplements, based on the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), can slow progression of forms of ‘dry’ macular degeneration. ‘Wet’ macular degeneration, a more severe and form of the disease, can be treated often leading to vision stabilization or improvement. Treatments include:

    • An injection of a medicine into the eye (not as uncomfortable as it sounds)
    • Laser surgery
    • Photodynamic therapy

Early Detection is Key

Early detection of macular degeneration is important to treat the disease. If you have a certain amount of macular degeneration, vitamins can help slow the disease. An eye exam, including a retinal evaluation, can determine if vitamins would be helpful to you. If you develop more advanced ‘wet’ macular degeneration, prompt treatment can provide the best outcome for your vision. Learn more about macular degeneration.
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