Macular degeneration (or AMD) is a chronic eye disease resulting in the partial or complete loss of vision. This occurs when the center portion of your retina, the macula, begins to degenerate. The leading cause is age; however, genetics, smoking, race, and obesity may also have an impact. This disease is most common in individuals over the age of 50, and although there is no known cure, treatment can slow the progression of AMD.
There are two types of AMD: wet and dry. Wet AMD is characterized by blood vessels growing under the retina and leaking. Treatment for this disease depends on the type and progression, which all differ per individual. If caught early, treatment can have a substantial impact on its progression. Acknowledging your symptoms early can greatly slow the progression of the disease. Here are some symptoms to look out for:

1. Blurred or fuzzy vision
In the process of degeneration, the macula will begin to thin. This thinning can cause your center of vision to become very blurred or fuzzy. If you notice that this symptom is quite frequent, be sure to mention it to your physician.

2. Straight lines that appear wavy or distorted
In the early stages of AMD, the vessels behind your retina may cause it to bulge. The bulging of the retina can twist or distort your vision. Although the retina is impacted, the macula may also become bent and alter the way light is reflecting on the retina.

3. Blurry areas on a printed page
This symptom is typically tested for using the Amsler grid. In this test, you will be asked to view a printed chart and report if any of the lines on it appear blurred or distorted. The blurriness is a result of damage to the macula and inhibits your ability to perceive straight lines.

4. Difficulty reading or seeing details in low light levels
There are two types of cells within our eyes that allow us to perceive imagery in color and black and white. These cells are called the rods and cones. The degeneration of the retina and macula may also slow the adaptation of the rods in our eyes to darkness. Without properly adapted rods, individuals may begin to lose their “night vision” and ability to see clearly in dim light.

5. Extra sensitivity to glare
Macular cells are tasked with adapting to different intensities and wavelengths of light. When these cells are damaged, the macula cannot properly adapt to different types of light, and an individual may begin to experience extreme discomfort in intense lighting. Sunlight, for example, may become completely unbearable without the use of sunglasses. Sunglasses have been specially made for individuals with light sensitivity.

As of now, there is no known treatment for dry AMD; however, progression of the disease can be slowed by consuming vitamin supplements, reducing the frequency of harmful habits, and eating healthier. Wet AMD is typically treated with medications that halt the growth of leaky blood vessels under the retina. These medications are given monthly or once every three months based on the progression of the disease. Regardless of the progression, it is important to note that AMD cannot be reversed.