Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) refers to the breakdown of the macula – a small, but very important area in the back of the eye. The macula provides the sharp, central vision we need for reading, driving and seeing fine detail. Macular degeneration can cause sudden, severe loss of vision in the middle of your visual field.

> Learn more about risk factors for age-related macular degeneration

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Macular degeneration reduces vision in the central part of the retina. It usually does not affect the eye's side, or peripheral, vision. If you notice words looking blurry on a page, a dark or empty area in the center of your vision, or crookedness of straight lines, you may have symptoms of macular degeneration.

You may lose vision in one eye but be able to see well out of the other eye.

You will notice central vision problems more quickly if both eyes have macular degeneration.

Many people do not realize that they have a macular problem until blurred vision becomes obvious.

> See what vision with AMD looks like

Your ophthalmologist, Eye M.D., can detect early stages of macular degeneration by giving you a simple vision test using a chart called the Amsler grid. See the Amsler grid.

Your doctor may also take special photographs of the eye called fluorescein angiography to find abnormal blood vessels under the retina.

Treatments & More

For additional information about AMD, including how it is treated, visit the AMD section of EyeCare America, an EyeSmart Campaign partner.