Macular degeneration is a process of wear and tear in the macula, the part of your eye responsible for sharp, central vision and color. Usually affecting both eyes, vision loss can be either gradual or abrupt, but is never caused by overusing your eyes. Vision loss may affect your ability to drive, read, and see fine details. Because side vision is unaffected, macular degeneration rarely leads to total blindness.

Easing Your Concerns About Vision Loss
Simply understanding why you're losing your vision and what you can expect in the future may help ease your concerns. Your doctor can evaluate your vision loss, assess whether treatment is possible, and show you how to monitor any vision changes, so you can follow up immediately with your doctor. You may also benefit by taking some precautions in the sun and by making the most of available resources.

Do you have difficulty reading road
signs? When reading, do letters
appear distorted?