Macular Degeneration
What is Macular Degeneration?
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Macular degeneration is the physical disturbance of the center of
the retina called the macula. The macula, which is about the size of
the capital letter "O" in this sentence, is the part of the
retina which is capable of our most acute and detailed vision.
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We use the macula for reading, driving, recognizing faces, watching
television, and fine work.
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Macular degeneration is the leading cause of legal blindness in
people over age 55. (Legal blindness means that a person can see
20/200 or less with eyeglasses.)
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Even with a loss of central vision, however, peripheral vision may remain clear. Vision loss usually occurs
gradually and typically affects both eyes at different rates.
Organizations:
Macular Degeneration
Foundation (exit DHFS)
PO Box 531313
Henderson, NV 89053
Toll Free: 888-633-3937
Fax: 702-450-3396
American Macular
Degeneration Foundation (exit DHFS)
P.O. Box 515
Northampton, MA 01061-0515
Phone: 413-268-7660
Toll Free: 888-MACULAR (622-8527)
Email: amdf@macular.org
Resources:
What causes Macular
Degeneration?
How is Macular Degeneration detected?
Is early detection important?
If I have Macular Degeneration in one eye, will it develop in the
other?
Is there a cure for Macular Degeneration?
Is Macular Degeneration hereditary?
Does sunlight affect Macular
Degeneration?
Does smoking or second hand smoke contribute to
Macular Degeneration?
What can I do to help prevent and cure
Macular Degeneration?
Last Revised: September 08, 2006 |
