What is Age Related Macular Degeneration?

Age Related Macular Degeneration also known as ARMD or AMD is an eye condition that causes vision loss in 50 years and older persons. It causes damage to the macula, which is located near the centre of the retina and the part of eye which is needed for sharp, central vision.

In some people, ARMD advances so slowly that vision loss does not occur for a long time. In others, the disease progresses faster. As ARMD progresses, patients experience a blurred area near the centre of vision which over time may grow bigger or there may be blank spots in the central vision. Also objects may not appear to be bright.

The Macula

The macula is made up of millions of light-sensing cells that provide sharp, central vision. It is the most sensitive part of the retina, which is located at the back of the eye. The retina turns light into electrical signals and then sends these signals through the optic nerve to the brain, where they are translated into the images we see. When the macula is damaged, the centre of your field of view may appear blurry, distorted, or dark.