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Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
by Amy Scholten, MPH
En Espaol (Spanish Version) In some people, macular degeneration advances so slowly that it has little effect on their vision. But in others, the disease progresses faster and may lead to vision loss. Sometimes only one eye is affected, while the other eye remains free of problems for many years. People with dry macular degeneration in one eye often do not notice any changes in their vision. With one eye seeing clearly, they can still drive, read, and see fine details. Some people may notice changes in their vision only if macular degeneration affects both of their eyes. Both dry and wet macular degeneration cause no pain.
Symptoms of macular degeneration include:
Blurred visionThis is an early sign. An example of early findings is that you may need more light for reading and other tasks.
Difficulty seeing details in front of youYou may have a difficult time seeing words in a book or faces.
Blind spotA small, growing blind spot will appear in the middle of your field of vision. This spot occurs because a group of cells in the macula have stopped working properly. Over time, the blurred spot may get bigger and darker, taking more of your central vision.
Crooked linesAn early symptom of wet macular degeneration is straight lines that will appear crooked or wavy. This happens because the newly formed blood vessels leak fluid under the macula. The fluid raises the macula from its normal place at the back of the eye and distorts your vision. LightingImages appear more gray in color and colors are not as bright Contact your ophthalmologist immediately for an eye exam if you notice: Visual distortionsSudden decrease in central visionA central blind spotAny other visual problems References: American Academy of Ophthalmologys Eye Care America website. Available at: http://www.eyecareamerica.org/eyecare/conditions/macular-degeneration/index.cfm Macular Degeneration Foundation website. Available at: http://www.eyesight.org/. National Eye Institute website. Available at: http://www.nei.nih.gov/. Last reviewed August 2007 by Marc Ellman, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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