This area of vision reduces to a dark or blank patch as the disease develops. Symptoms may develop over a period of a few months. As its name suggests, the disease normally affects people as they get older. An inherited form of this condition also affects younger people. However, the exact cause of age-related macular degeneration is unknown.
Recent reports show an increase in the numbers of young adults now being diagnosed with the disease.
Causes for this appear to be linked to pollutants in the urban environment and to today's lifestyles and diet, although further research is needed. Whilst sight loss of any kind is distressing, age-related macular degeneration does not cause total blindness. Peripheral vision is not affected which means that most people retain enough side vision to get around and keep their independence. Some forms of the disease can be alleviated by simple laser treatment. As with many eye diseases, early detection is essential for effective treatment.