What occurs during macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration primarily involves the deterioration of the central portion of the retina, known as the macula. This area is crucial for sharp, central vision, which is necessary for activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. As age-related macular degeneration progresses, individuals may experience blurred or distorted central vision.

The condition can manifest in various forms, with dry macular degeneration being characterized by the gradual thinning of the macula, while wet macular degeneration involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels that can leak fluid or bleed. Regardless of the type, the central vision loss associated with macular degeneration can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to perform everyday tasks.

Peripheral vision loss is related to other conditions, such as glaucoma, while cataracts refer to clouding of the eye's lens, not the retina. Increased intraocular pressure is also associated with glaucoma and does not pertain to the degeneration of the macula. Understanding these distinctions reinforces the significance of the correct answer regarding macular degeneration.