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Definition
 Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD, or ARMD) is the deterioration of the center of the retina, called the macula. The macula is responsible for fine detail acuity and central vision. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over age 55. AMD does not typically affect the peripheral vision and usually does not lead to total blindness. However, activities such as reading, driving, recognizing faces and fine work are compromised. Whether the more common "dry" form of AMD or the more severe "wet" form is present, it is important to know the facts about AMD. The majority of AMD is associated with aging. There are other degenerations of the macula that are hereditary, and can occur in children. Causes
The exact causes of AMD are still unclear. The dry form of AMD may result from the aging of the macular area of the retina, variations of pigment in the macula, or a combination of the two processes. With wet AMD, fragile blood vessels grow beneath the retina which leak blood and fluid. This leakage damages retinal cells and creates weak or blind spots in central vision. Factors that raise the risk for AMD include having a family member with AMD, smoking, high blood pressure, farsightedness and obesity. Effect on Vision
AMD primarily effects the central vision - our most sensitive portion of the retina. In early stages, the symptoms range from mild blur, to inability to see normal or large print. In advanced stages, vision can be blurred to a point where mobility is affected. Although AMD alone is not typically a blinding disorder, it may cause "legal blindness". Legal blindness is a classification used when vision is impaired to a level that the individual is entitled to various government sponsored services. Treatments
 Much effort and funding is going toward the prevention and treatment of macular degeneration. Laser photocoagulation can help some people with wet ARMD. In this treatment, laser light rays are directed into the eye and focused on a small spot on the macula. The laser destroys the blood vessels growing beneath the retina and seals leaks. This treatment does not restore lost vision, and in fact, damages the retina wherever it is directed. It is therefore critical that is be applied as early as possible. Early treatment is the key. There are also several experimental treatments being evaluated in clinical trials. Select Links
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