Understanding how age-related macular degeneration affects your eyes is key to preventing permanent changes to your central vision.
What is Macular Degeneration?
AMD is the number-one cause of vision loss in the United States. The macula is a part of the retina in the back of the eye that ensures that our central vision is clear and sharp. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when the arteries that nourish the retina harden. Deprived of nutrients, the retinal tissues begin to weaken and die, causing vision loss. Patients may experience anything from a blurry, gray or distorted area to a blind spot in the center of vision. Macular degeneration doesn’t cause total blindness because it doesn’t affect the peripheral vision. Possible risk factors include genetics, age, diet, smoking and sunlight exposure. Scheduling regular eye exams is the best way to catch macular degeneration in Brooklyn early and protect your everyday sight.
