Macular Degeneration
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| Macular Degeneration InfoCenter is an Internet resource that offers you an opportunity to research macular degeneration. Macular Degeneration InfoCenter does not offer medical advice or referrals. |
Symptoms of Macular DegenerationMacular degeneration is a condition that affects the retina of the eye. As the most common cause of blindness and vision loss in people over the age of 60, this condition can have a devastating impact on those it affects. In order to help prevent the condition and take advantage of available treatments, learning how to recognize the symptoms of macular degeneration is essential. The Effects of Macular DegenerationIn individuals suffering from macular degeneration, the light-sensing cells in the retina at the back of the eye stop working and may eventually die. The section of the retina affected by the disease is known as the macula and is responsible for sharp, clear, central vision. As the disease progresses, the individual will begin to lose his “straight-ahead” vision, although they will generally retain their peripheral sight. Macular degeneration affects more than 15 million people in the United States alone, with more than 2 million new cases diagnosed each year. Early detection allows people to utilize treatments that may slow the progression of the disease, which is why people should have their eyes examined regularly by an eye care professional and watch for possible symptoms of macular degeneration. Common Symptoms of Macular DegenerationThe progression of macular degeneration is generally slow and painless. The earliest symptoms of the disease include blurry central vision or visual distortions. Because macular degeneration usually begins so slowly, many people do not immediately realize that they are progressively losing their sight. Due to the way the disease advances, eye care professionals are generally able to detect macular degeneration before the patient does. When people age, eyesight begins to worsen as the cells in the retina become less capable of receiving, processing and transmitting information. The retina may begin to thin, making eyesight progressively worse. Eventually, deposits known as drusen may appear under the retina. In some cases, retinal pigment may also be disturbed. In order to receive the appropriate macular degeneration treatment as soon as possible, people should have regular eye exams to check for the symptoms of macular degeneration. |