Macular degeneration is a leading cause of severe vision loss in people over 50. It affects the center of your vision, the part you use to read, drive, and recognize faces. Early detection and monitoring can help protect the vision you have.
Macular degeneration can develop slowly, so changes may be easy to miss. Common signs include:
If straight lines suddenly look wavy or you notice a sudden change in central vision, contact us right away. Wet macular degeneration can progress quickly, and prompt treatment makes a difference.
The macula is the central part of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It’s responsible for sharp, detailed vision. Macular degeneration damages this area and gradually reduces central vision. It’s most common after age 60.
Family history, smoking, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diet, and sun exposure can also increase your risk. Some of these can be managed, which makes regular exams even more valuable.
There are two main types, and they progress very differently.
The most common form, making up about 80–90% of cases. It involves thinning of the macula and yellow deposits called drusen, and it progresses slowly.
Less common but more severe. Abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leak fluid or blood, and can cause rapid vision loss.
Some risk factors can’t be changed, but others can be managed with healthy habits and regular care.
Risk rises significantly after 60.
Having relatives with the condition increases your risk.
One of the most significant changeable risk factors.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease affect blood flow to the retina.
Diets high in saturated fat and low in leafy greens and fish are linked to higher risk.
Unprotected UV exposure over time can damage the retina.
Diagnosis combines a detailed exam with imaging that shows the retina and blood flow.
We ask about your symptoms and test how well you see at different distances.
Drops widen your pupils so we can examine the retina and macula closely.
A non-invasive scan shows cross-sections of the retina, revealing drusen, thinning, or fluid.
A dye and special camera show blood flow, helping identify leaking vessels in wet AMD.
A simple grid you can use at home to spot wavy or missing lines between visits.
There’s currently no cure, but treatment can slow progression and help preserve vision. The approach depends on the type.
The AREDS and AREDS2 studies found that specific vitamin and mineral formulas can reduce the risk of advanced disease in some patients.
Leafy greens, omega-3s, not smoking, and sun protection support overall eye health.
Medications injected into the eye slow abnormal blood vessel growth, usually monthly at first, then less often.
Photodynamic therapy and laser treatment can seal leaking vessels in some cases.
Gene and stem cell therapies are being studied. Ask us whether any clinical trials may be a fit for you.
Healthy habits can help reduce your risk and slow progression if you’re already affected.
If you or a loved one is facing macular degeneration, our team at Foley Vision Center is here to help you understand your options.
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