Common in elderly individuals
Can lead to visual loss
Progression of disease can lead to difficulty reading, driving, or performing activities
of daily living
Two sub-types of macular degeneration are dry (atrophic) and wet (neo-vascular).
Most cases are dry macular degeneration. If, however, patient has wet macular
degeneration, it is more serious and can lead to blindness in an acute fashion rather
than progressive fashion.
Biggest risk factors are age, family history, cardiovascular disease, and smoking
Quitting smoking reduces the risk of developing macular degeneration and some
studies suggest that diet high in anti-oxidants can be protective. Patients can also
benefit by using a magnifying glass.