Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration, is a condition that causes obscured or impaired vision in the center of the visual field. While the specific causes of macular degeneration are unknown, certain factors increase your risk of developing the condition, including age, genetics, smoking, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases.

Symptoms of macular degeneration are discussed below:

1. Difficulty reading or seeing details in low light levels
The loss of central vision is the most devastating symptom of macular degeneration, with patients in the latter stages of the disease reporting a smudge or black patch in the center of their vision. This makes reading difficult, and many individuals stop reading as a result. Individuals who are developing the condition may also have difficulty adjusting to changing levels of light.

2. Extra sensitivity to glare
Another common symptom of macular degeneration is extra sensitivity to glare. If cataracts form, the natural lens of the eye fogs up. Dry eye, a damaged cornea, and general retinal health issues are all contributing factors. Individuals with glare sensitivity will be unable to see clearly in the sun or under bright lights, and their surroundings may blur into a “wall” of dazzling white.

3. Blurred or fuzzy vision
Blurry vision begins to affect a person’s ability to see at a distance. This mainly occurs in cases of wet macular degeneration, and mostly affects older patients. As patients suffer from increasingly blurry vision, they might be discouraged from reading or typing, or even decide to leave their jobs.

4. Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
Metamorphopsia, which is caused by macular degeneration, affects center vision and makes it difficult to perceive linear objects. This could happen in one or both eyes. When you have this condition, you may notice that straight lines look distorted. If an individual has this symptom, driving will become challenging, and may even lead to accidents.

5. Blurry areas on a printed page
This symptom is mostly associated with age-related macular degeneration, and is usually an early sign of a sight issue. If it gets worse, patients may struggle to see anything in the center of their vision. This will affect reading, writing, and using a phone or computer.

The best way to cure any disease is always to prevent it. Since macular degeneration is incurable, taking preventative steps is vital to protect your eye health. Vitamins like lutein, vitamins C and E, and zinc oxide are all beneficial to vision. Scientists are conducting research on macular degeneration needle treatment for those who have already developed the condition.