Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common vision concern among people aged 50 and up. It is also a primary cause of permanent vision loss. If you suddenly acquire or develop this eye condition what may happen to you?
The macular inside your eyes will start deteriorating gradually. Understand that the macula supports the functionality of the retina, sharpening central vision. But AMD will hinder you from doing the simple things you do every day, like driving, writing, and reading. Other risk factors for having AMD are bad habits (e.g., smoking), genetics, and race.
AMD comes in two categories wet and dry. Dry AMD is the most common one, which 90% of people develop it. This AMD occurs when the tissues of your macula become thinner, your retina develops greasy deposits of drusin.
Dry AMD may progress into wet AMD (10% of the population acquires this). So what happens when you have wet AMD? Your retina develops new blood vessels to intensify the blood supply in your eyes. But these vessels are weak and unstable, leaking fluid. This instance scars the macula and leads to vision loss.
Your optometrist Lake Stevens, WA is a valuable resource when it comes to issues that affect your eyes.
