Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Central vision fades due to aging changes in the macula, the area for sharp sight.
A way to think about it
Imagine your eye is a camera. The macula is the center of the film that captures fine detail—like when you read or recognize faces. In AMD, this center of the film wears out with age, getting blurry or dark spots. Early on it's like a smudge you can work around; late-stage AMD is like the film is broken in the middle.
What's happening in the eye
The macula is the small, central part of the retina (back of the eye) packed with light-sensitive cells. Over decades, deposits and pigment changes build up. In dry AMD (most common, 90%), the light-sensitive cells gradually die. In wet AMD (10%), abnormal blood vessels leak under the macula, causing swelling and scarring. Both steal central, detailed vision.
Common symptoms
- Blurry or fuzzy central vision, colors seem dull
- Straight lines appear wavy or bent (Amsler grid change)
- Dark or blank spots appear in the center of vision
- Difficulty recognizing faces or reading small print
- Difficulty driving or seeing street signs
Risk factors
- Age over 65, major risk jumps after 80
- Smoking—triples your risk, avoid it
- Family history of AMD significantly increases risk
- Obesity or sedentary lifestyle worsens progression
- High blood pressure and high cholesterol contribute
- Blue or light-colored eyes, sun exposure
Treatment options
Warning signs - seek care immediately
- Straight lines suddenly look wavy or bent—could mean progression, see doctor within days
- New dark or blank spot in center of vision—urgent, don't delay
- Sudden blurring of central vision—get seen same day if possible
- Loss of color vision in center—may signal wet AMD developing
Questions to ask your doctor
- 1.Do I have dry or wet AMD? How do you know? Can it convert?
- 2.Should I use an Amsler grid daily? How do I report changes?
- 3.Am I a candidate for anti-VEGF injections if I develop wet AMD?
- 4.What supplements or vitamins should I take? Should I adjust my diet?
- 5.How often do I need follow-up imaging (OCT scans or angiograms)?
Most people with dry AMD keep useful vision for years or decades. Wet AMD, caught early and treated with injections, preserves vision in most patients. Regular monitoring is your best tool.
Sources
Information on this page is based on the following authoritative sources:
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
- National Eye Institute (NIH)
- American Optometric Association
- Mayo Clinic
Last updated: April 2026