Eye Care > Common Eye Conditions > Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness and vision loss in Americans over age 65. It is estimated that more than 13 million Americans show signs of macular degeneration. This disease is caused by the breakdown of the macula–the light-sensitive part of the retina that is responsible for sharp, direct vision needed when reading or driving.

Age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 65. An estimated 1.6 million Americans are affected by AMD; most of these are women. The numbers continually increase because people are living longer.

No one really knows what causes AMD, just that it affects the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Over time, people can be left with just peripheral (side) vision. AMD can come in two forms – dry macular degeneration and wet macular degeneration.

Park Nicollet has low-vision specialists at Park Nicollet Clinic—Bloomington in Minnesota and offers products such as magnifiers, lighting, special TVs, telephones, access to large print materials and many other life-changing products to help people with this vision problem. Your eyes will be tested for symptoms of macular degeneration during your Park Nicollet eye examination. Call 952-993-3150 for appointments.