Macular degeneration is an eye disease that destroys central
vision by damaging a part of the retina called the macula. Side
(peripheral) vision is not affected, and many people function
well in spite of losing their central vision, although walking,
reading, and other activities that require central vision are
more difficult. The nerve cells in the retina detect light and
send signals to the brain about what the eye sees. The macula is
near the center of the retina at the back of the eyeball. It
provides the clear, sharp central vision that allows a person to
see form, color, and detail that is directly in the line of
sight. The rest of the retina provides peripheral vision.
Macular degeneration may occur in one or both eyes. The signs
may range from blurry or distorted vision to a blind spot in the
center of the visual field. Straight lines may appear wavy, and
colors may appear faded or dim. Because macular degeneration
affects only central vision, it does not lead to total
blindness. Macular degeneration