Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a deterioration of the macula, the central portion of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It’s a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50, and while it doesn’t cause total blindness, it can significantly affect reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
Request an AppointmentTypes of Macular Degeneration
There are two main forms: dry macular degeneration, the more common and typically slower-progressing type, caused by the gradual thinning of macular tissue; and wet macular degeneration, a less common but more aggressive form caused by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina that can leak fluid and cause rapid vision loss.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Blurred or fuzzy central vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
- A dark or empty area in the center of your vision
- Difficulty recognizing faces
- Colors appearing less vivid
Because macular degeneration typically spares peripheral vision, many patients don’t notice symptoms until the condition has progressed. This makes regular comprehensive eye exams especially important after age 50, or earlier with a family history of the disease.
Treatment Options
While there’s currently no cure for macular degeneration, treatment can slow its progression and, in some cases, preserve vision. For dry macular degeneration, specific vitamin and mineral supplements have been shown to reduce the risk of progression in certain patients. For wet macular degeneration, injectable medications that target abnormal blood vessel growth are often highly effective at stabilizing or even improving vision when started early.
Macular degeneration can also occur alongside other conditions we manage, including cataracts and diabetic retinopathy, which is why a thorough retinal evaluation is part of our comprehensive exams.
If you’ve noticed changes in your central vision, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Contact Louisiana Eye Specialists at to schedule an evaluation.
Request an AppointmentMacular Degeneration FAQs
What’s the difference between dry and wet macular degeneration?
Dry macular degeneration progresses gradually as macular tissue thins, while wet macular degeneration involves abnormal blood vessel growth that can cause rapid vision changes.
Can macular degeneration be cured?
There’s currently no cure, but treatment can slow progression and, especially for wet macular degeneration caught early, help stabilize or improve vision.
Will I go completely blind from macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration affects central vision but typically spares peripheral vision, so complete blindness is rare, though daily tasks like reading and driving can become difficult.
Am I at higher risk if it runs in my family?
Yes, family history is one of the strongest risk factors, along with age, smoking, and cardiovascular health.
How is macular degeneration diagnosed?
Through a dilated eye exam and retinal imaging, which allow us to closely examine the macula for early signs of damage.
How often should I be screened if I’m over 50?
We generally recommend a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years after 50, or more often if you have risk factors or existing changes.