What makes us loose eye sight?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK and US. It affects the macula, which is the central part of the retina at the back of the eye. AMD is a progressive condition, which means it gets worse over time. There are two main types of AMD: dry AMD and wet AMD.
Dry AMD is the most common type of AMD. It occurs when the macula gradually becomes thinner and loses its function. Dry AMD can cause blurred vision, loss of central vision, and difficulty reading.
Wet AMD is a less common but more serious type of AMD. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak blood and fluid. Wet AMD can cause rapid and severe vision loss.
Other causes of sight loss include:
* Cataracts are a clouding of the lens in the eye. Cataracts can cause blurred vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night.
* Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. Glaucoma can cause loss of peripheral vision, tunnel vision, and blindness.
* Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the retina. Diabetic retinopathy can cause blurred vision, floaters, and loss of vision.
* Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic disorder that affects the retina. Retinitis pigmentosa causes night blindness, loss of peripheral vision, and tunnel vision.
If you are experiencing any changes in your vision, it is important to see an eye doctor right away. Early detection and treatment can help to slow the progression of sight loss.