A dense concentration of rods and cones helps us see fine details at the center of our field of vision. In almost 8,000 Americans each year, mostly older people, the surface of the macula degenerates enough to cause legal blindness. The immediate cause for macular degeneration is not well understood, but a degenerative condition may be inherited. As degeneration progresses, central vision gradually and painlessly blurs in one or both eyes. This ailment affects the central section of vision, so any noticeable changes in central vision necessitate a visit to the eye doctor.
Physicians use fluorescein angiography to analyze the blood vessels in the eye.
During this test, the doctor injects into a vein in the arm a dye that travels through the circulatory system to the eyes. The pattern revealed by this dye indicates the presence or absence of macular degeneration. In the early stages of the disease, magnifying glasses may help you read. Laser treatments seal leaks under the retina and reattach parts of it and in some cases will prevent the progression of senile macular degeneration. In the later stages, sharp central vision is lost completely.