Macular Degeneration
What?
Macular degeneration is the gradual loss of vision caused by the oxidation of the macula, which is a small, circular membrane at the center of the retina. This membrane is light sensitive and responsible for our central vision. When the macula degenerations, central vision deteriorates, resulting in dark spots and cloudiness. This disease is the most common cause of blindness in people over 50.
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What are the symptoms?
- Bent or warped images
- Dark, foggy or light spots
- Words on a page may appear distorted or incomplete
- The condition is painless
Why?
It is caused by the oxidation of the macula. As the arteries harden with age, the delicate structures of the eye begin to lose some of their function. The condition may be aggravated by factors such as smoking, cardiovascular disease, exposure to sunlight, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or poor diet. Heredity may also influence the development of macular degeneration. The condition is very rare before age 50.
