Macular Degeneration

What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular Degeneration (MD) is an eye condition that causes a grey spot to form in the center of the visual field. This can be a nuisance in everyday life because this part helps us see objects clearly and makes it possible to perform tasks such as reading and driving.

This eye condition stands as the leading cause of visual impairment among adults over the age of 50. It’s often referred to as “age-related macular degeneration” or AMD, in part due to this reason. It’s a progressive condition believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Learning that vision is affected can be deeply unsettling.

However, once the initial emotions settle, finding comfort in the shared experiences of others can offer support. Many individuals, whether recently diagnosed or having lived with it for years, face similar challenges. This eye condition can manifest in “dry” and “wet” variants, with the most common being dry MD, characterized by gradual vision deterioration.

Wet MD is much less common and causes a faster deterioration of vision. If you experience poor vision as a result, there are aids available that can help with the tasks you have difficulty with. These aids can provide support with tasks that require vision and can help you continue to lead a full and independent life.

What are the symptoms of Macular Degeneration?

Symptoms include:

• blurry sight
• shadows or missing parts in your field of vision
• distortion of the image
• difficulty distinguishing colours
• slow adjustment of the eyes after exposure to bright light
• loss of contrast sensitivity

Learn more about Macular Degeneration

There is extensive information available about Macular Degeneration. This information is intended to inform you about the most important aspects of this eye condition and is not intended to replace the information one receives from the doctor or eye specialist.

Useful Resources:

• Macular Society
• RNIB
• Moorfields Eye Hospital