Age-related Macular Degeneration

What is Age-related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the name given to a group of degenerative diseases of the retina that cause progressive, painless loss of central vision, affecting the ability to see fine detail, drive, read and recognise faces.

Although there is currently no cure for AMD, there are treatment options that can slow down its progression, depending on the stage and type of the disease (wet, dry, and other forms). The earlier the disease is detected, the more vision you are likely to retain.

Will AMD cause blindness?

AMD only affects the central vision, and progresses slowly in most cases, so if there are no other problems you will maintain some peripheral vision.

For more information visit the Macular Degeneration Foundation website.