Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
Gradual loss of central vision — the part you use for reading and recognizing faces — usually starting after age 60.
Try Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in the simulator →What it looks like
AMD typically begins as a subtle blurred or smudged area in the center of vision. Reading becomes harder because letters in the middle of words drop out. Many patients also notice that straight lines (door frames, the edge of a table) appear wavy or bent — a symptom called metamorphopsia. Peripheral (side) vision remains normal, so people with AMD can still walk and see things around them. Over time, the central smudge can darken into a true blind spot.
Dry vs. wet
About 85–90% of AMD is the "dry" type — slow gradual atrophy of central retinal cells. The remaining 10–15% is the "wet" type — abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina and leaking fluid, which causes sudden distortion and rapid vision loss. Wet AMD is treatable with anti-VEGF injections if caught early.
When to see a doctor
If you notice central blur, distorted straight lines, or trouble reading that wasn't there before — especially over age 50 — see an ophthalmologist promptly. Sudden new distortion can mean conversion from dry to wet AMD and is urgent.
Also known as
AMD · ARMD · Macular degeneration · Dry AMD · Wet AMD