Skip to content
Family Optometry

← Eye Health & Disease

Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition affecting older adults that causes vision loss in the center of the visual field due to retinal damage. It is the leading cause of blindness and visual impairment in adults over the age of 50.

Types

Dry Form — results from deterioration of the retinal pigment epithelial layer, damaging the rods and cones in the eye's central region.

Wet Form — develops from abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the macula, leading to leakage and scarring. Only about 10 percent of AMD patients have this type, though it causes more rapid vision loss if untreated.

Key Points

  • AMD can impair reading and face recognition while preserving peripheral vision
  • The condition is painless, making early detection through regular eye exams crucial
  • Prevalence increases with age — about 10% for ages 66-74, 30% for ages 75-85
  • Family history may be a contributing factor
  • Early detection and modern treatments can help maintain or improve visual acuity
Request Appointment More articles →

Related articles

Blepharitis

Inflammation of the eyelids causing redness, swelling, styes, and crusting along the lash line — usually treatable with simple eyelid hygiene plus prescription drops if needed.

Cataracts

A clouding of the lens inside the eye that gradually decreases vision. The leading cause of blindness worldwide, but highly treatable with modern surgery.

Conjunctivitis

Commonly known as "pink eye" — swelling and irritation of the membrane covering the white of the eye. Most cases respond well to professional treatment.

Diabetic Retinopathy

A diabetes-related eye condition affecting up to 80% of patients with diabetes for 10+ years. Early detection through regular exams is critical — most cases can be reduced with prompt care.