Age-related Macular Degeneration

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Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD or AMD) is a disease that affects the macula. The macula is found in the middle portion of the retina and is responsible for central vision.

Damage to this area may result in distortion, blurriness or "blank" spots in the central field of vision. There are two forms of this disease - dry AMD, the more common type, and wet AMD.

Although use of specific supplements have been shown to slow down the progression of dry AMD, there is no medical or surgical treatment for this type of AMD. Wet AMD can be treated with eye injections or, less commonly, with laser therapy.

Risk factors for AMD include age, race, smoking, family history, hypertension, obesity and poor diet.