Macular degeneration may be age-related, as it may cause vision problems for many people over the age of sixty. The condition may not cause total blindness, but may make certain daily activities, such as driving, reading and recognizing people and objects, difficult.

There are two types of macular degeneration: the wet form and the dry form. The dry form may be caused by the thinning and wearing down of the cells in the macula. Yellow deposits may begin to develop overtime, damaging the macula. The wet form of macular degeneration may be caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the back of the eye. The blood vessels may leak blood or other fluid and cause distortion in the patient's vision.

Smoking and family history may play a role in developing macular degeneration. The primary symptom of macular degeneration may be blurry central vision. Patients may experience a blank spot in the middle of their vision or may see objects as appearing warped or smaller than they actually are.

In the wet form of the condition, symptoms may come on swiftly, while symptoms in the dry form may develop more slowly. The first symptom of the wet form may be that straight lines may begin to appear wavy or curved.

Currently, there may be no cure for macular degeneration. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants and minerals may help to slow down vision changes. Injecting certain medicines into the eye, photodynamic therapy and laser surgery may be possible treatments for the wet form.

Acting quickly once diagnosed with the condition may help to slow down vision loss. While these treatments may not stop vision loss, they may be helpful in slowing the process. A health care professional may recommend other treatments or provide further information regarding treatment options. Diet and lifestyle changes may support eye health throughout time.

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