What Causes It?
According to the AMDF, this progressive illness is caused by the deterioration of the macula, or the layer of the retina responsible for focusing central vision in the eye. The macula controls the ability to perform a number of daily functions, including the ability to read, drive a car, recognize faces and colors, and see fine details.
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are two forms of macular degeneration: dry macular degeneration and wet macular degeneration.
Dry macular degeneration is more common and is characterized by the breakdown or deterioration of the macula in the retina. Wet macular degeneration, on the other hand, is characterized by the growth of blood vessels under the retina at the back of the eye, which leak blood and fluid and interrupts the vision process.
Am I at Risk?
Your risk of developing macular degeneration increases as you age, and the disease is most likely to develop in patients who are 55 or older. However, there are other factors that increase the chances of developing this condition, including:
- Genetics: People who have a family history of the disease, or a parent or sibling who has been diagnosed with the condition, are more likely to be diagnosed with macular degeneration themselves.