Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative disease that can slowly steal your central vision. AMD causes the macula, the center of the retina, to deteriorate, causing dark spots and vision loss. However, peripheral vision should remain unaffected.
Age-related macular degeneration is very common and is the leading cause of vision loss in people age 50 and older. As with most common eye conditions, the early stages are mainly asymptomatic. However, for some people the condition progresses quickly and leads to more noticeable vision impairment than for others.
Some common symptoms of AMD include:
- Blurred or “fuzzy” vision
- Dark or dim spots in your vision
- Blurry areas on a printed page
- Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
- Extra sensitivity to glare
