What is Macular Degeneration?

There are two forms of the disease  -  Dry AMD and Wet AMD

In the earliest stages of this disease, yellow deposits called drusen form beneath the retina.  Drusen are considered to be the dry form of Macular Degeneration and usually do not affect vision.  However, when drusen expand in size and number, they can distort vision.  When present for a long time, drusen may cause the macula to thin and stop functioning.  This is know as Atrophic  Dry Macular Degeneration.

This tissue degeneration triggers 
a slow and progressive loss of central vision.  Some people with this form will detect "blank" areas in their central vision.  Dry Macular Degeneration is more common than the wet form, occurring in approximately 90% of people with the condition.  Since the dry form can progress to the wet form, it is important to monitor your vision daily with a tool called and Amsler Grid. See Grid on page 5.