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Macular Degeneration - Macular degeneration is deterioration of the macula, usually caused by "hardening of the arteries." The macula is part of the retina in the back of the eye that allows us to see fine details clearly. When the macula doesn't function correctly, we experience bluriness or darkness in the center of our vision. Although macular degeneration reduces vision in the central part of the eye, it does not affect the eye's side, or peripheral vision. Macular degeneration does not result in total blindness. Many older people develop macular degeneration as a part of the body's natural aging process. It can have different symptoms including blurred or distorted vision and blind spots. The condition can be hardly noticeable in its early stages. If both eyes are affected, the loss of central vision or the ability to see objects directly ahead of you, may be noticed quite rapidly. Sometimes a laser treatment can be used to treat certain types of macular degeneration in its early stages. The best way to prevent permanent damage is to see your ophthalmologist regularly.
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