Basics of Macular Degeneration (AMD)

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Age-Related Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in older people, affecting 10 million Americans today.   Many people in Oregon (including Eugene) and all over the USA are currently affected by this illness. The central region of the retina begins to deteriorate, which results in the vision loss cased by the disease. The macula, which is located at the back of the eye, is where the vision loss occurs, which is why the center of our vision is affected. The optic nerve transmits these images, which the brain then interprets. Although there is currently no cure for this illness, there are ways to lessen its effects and prevent vision loss from it.

Age over 55, smoking, and people with a family history of AMD are most at risk for developing age-related macular degeneration. The effects of AMD can be slowed down by quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. AMD does not result in total blindness or the inability to see at all. However, the loss of central vision associated with AMD can make it difficult to perform close-up tasks like cooking or home maintenance or to drive, read, write, or recognize people.