As people age, abnormalities can develop in the central part of the retina, known as the macula. The macula is crucial for sharp vision at a distance and for reading. Problems with the macula can lead to deterioration in vision and sometimes cause spots or distortions in the visual field.
There are two forms of macular degeneration:
Dry Form with Drusen and Atrophy
Drusen are small spots on the retina caused by the accumulation of waste products. Atrophy refers to the thinning of the retina, which impairs its function.
In the dry form of macular degeneration, vision generally deteriorates slowly.
Wet Macular Degeneration
In this form, abnormal blood vessels grow underneath the retina. These vessels leak, causing swelling of the retina and sometimes bleeding.
This can lead to a rapid decrease in vision.