Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common condition that affects many people, usually over the age of 65.
This condition affects the macular area, a small part of the retina at the back of the eye. Damage to these cells causes distortion of central vision and in some cases can cause a painless loss of central vision.
There are two main types of AMD: “dry” and “wet”.
Dry AMD is the more common type. It develops very slowly and causes a gradual change in central vision. In more severe cases, dry AMD causes a blank patch in the centre of your vision in both eyes. It doesn’t affect the peripheral vision and it does not lead to complete blindness.
Wet AMD develops more rapidly, so it impacts central vision in a shorter time. Neither type of AMD will cause the loss of peripheral vision and blindness.
