Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a common, painless eye condition in which the central portion of the

retina

deteriorates and does not function adequately. The macula is responsible for central vision (straight-ahead vision) and provides the ability to see fine detail in your direct line of sight. The disease occurs most commonly in those over 60 years of age, when it is termed age-related macular degeneration (AMD). An

ophthalmologist

diagnoses and treats macular degeneration. Treatment may include:

laser surgery

,

photodynamic therapy

, in which light activates a drug that is injected into your body to destroy leaking blood vessels; and

medications

that prevent new blood vessels from forming in the eye. Special lenses can help you use the vision that you have more effectively.