What Is Macular Degeneration and Why Annual Eye Exams Matter for Protecting Your Vision

Macular degeneration, also called age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a common eye condition and a leading cause of central vision loss in adults over the age of 50. While AMD does not usually cause complete blindness, it can significantly affect everyday activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces. The good news is that early detection through annual eye exams plays a critical role in preserving vision.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. When the macula becomes damaged, central vision becomes blurry or distorted while peripheral (side) vision typically remains intact.

There are two main types of macular degeneration:

• Dry macular degeneration – The most common form, caused by thinning of the macula and the buildup of drusen (tiny yellow deposits). Vision loss is usually gradual.​

• Wet macular degeneration – A less common but more severe form, caused by abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina. Wet AMD can lead to rapid and permanent vision loss without prompt treatment.​

Why Annual Eye Exams Are Essential

Many people with early macular degeneration experience little to no noticeable symptoms. This makes routine eye care especially important. An annual comprehensive eye exam allows your eye doctor to detect early changes in the retina before vision loss occurs.

During an exam, your eye care provider can:

• Identify early signs of macular degeneration​

• Monitor changes in retinal health over time​

• Use advanced imaging like optical coherence tomography (OCT) to detect subtle macular damage​

• Recommend lifestyle changes and nutritional support to slow disease progression​

Early Detection Helps Prevent Vision Loss

Catching macular degeneration early gives patients access to the most effective treatment options. While there is currently no cure for AMD, early intervention can slow progression, preserve vision, and improve long-term outcomes. For wet macular degeneration, timely treatment can mean the difference between stable vision and permanent vision loss.

Who Is at Risk for Macular Degeneration?

You may be at higher risk for developing AMD if you:

• Are over the age of 50​

• Have a family history of macular degeneration​

• Smoke or have smoked in the past​

• Have high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease​

• Have prolonged UV or blue light exposure without eye protection​

Annual eye exams are especially important for individuals with one or more risk factors.

Protect Your Vision with Preventive Eye Care

Preventing vision loss from macular degeneration starts with routine eye exams, healthy lifestyle choices, UV-protective eyewear, and early treatment when needed. Even if your vision seems clear, subtle retinal changes can only be detected during a comprehensive eye exam.

Don’t wait, schedule your comprehensive exam with Dr. Ame Cline at The Eye Care Studio today. Appointments can be scheduled online or by phone (740) 761-2020.