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Macular degeneration is a common cause of blindness for those over 55 years of age. The central part of the retina (the macula) deteriorates, leading to loss of central, or "straight ahead" vision. One or both eyes may be affected.
The exact cause is not known. In many cases, though, the small vessels of the eye can become narrowed and hardened due to atherosclerosis. When this happens, the macula doesn't get the blood supply it needs, which in turn causes it to degenerate, or waste away. This is called the dry form. In the wet form (which is less common than the dry), tiny blood vessels leak blood or fluid around the macula.
If you notice any of the following signs and symptoms of macular degeneration, you should see your doctor or ophthalmologist right away:
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Seeing a dark or blind spot at the center of vision
- Distorted vision such as straight lines that look wavy
- Difficulty reading or doing other close-up work
- Difficulty doing any activity that requires sharp vision (e.g., driving)
- Complete loss of central vision. Peripheral, or side, vision is not affected.
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