What are the signs and symptoms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?
“AMD is a progressive eye condition that causes damage to the macula, a small spot near the center of the retina. The macula is the part of the eye that allows us to clearly see objects that are straight ahead. In the beginning stages of AMD, there may not be any noticeable symptoms. It could go unrecognized until it progresses or when it begins to affect both eyes. The first sign of AMD is usually distortion of straight lines. Additional symptoms include distortion of the center of vision with dark, blurry or “white out” areas, and diminished or changed color perception.
AMD does not cause complete blindness, only central blindness, leaving only dim images or black holes at the center of vision. There are two types of AMD – “wet” and “dry.” While there’s no cure for AMD, treatments are available for the wet form and research is being done on treatments for the dry form.
AMD affects millions of Americans over the age of 60. Routine comprehensive eye exams are critical for early detection of AMD. Schedule your complete and pain-free eye exam today by calling Illinois Eye center at (309) 243-2400.” – Dr. Min-Kyu Han, Fellowship-Trained Physician, Specializing in diseases of the retina, including Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinal Vascular Diseases.