What are the early signs of macular degeneration?
Early AMD often has no symptoms. Later, straight lines look wavy and you may notice a blurry or blank spot in the center of your vision. Check each eye with an Amsler grid; new distortion warrants a prompt eye exam. Dry AMD progresses slowly, but wet AMD—where leaky blood vessels grow under the retina—can steal vision within weeks (Fleckenstein et al., 2021).
How is AMD treated?
Wet AMD is treated with regular anti-VEGF injections into the eye, which can stabilize or even improve vision. For intermediate or advanced dry AMD, the AREDS2 formula (vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein and zeaxanthin) lowered the risk of progression by about 25%. Not smoking is the single best prevention. Get dilated eye exams along with checks for cataracts and glaucoma.
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
FAQ
- Should everyone take AREDS2 vitamins?
- No—benefit was shown for people who already have intermediate or advanced AMD.
- Does AMD cause total blindness?
- Rarely; side vision usually remains, but reading and driving can become difficult.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-25
References
- Fleckenstein, M., et al. (2021). Age-related macular degeneration. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 7, 31.
- AREDS2 Research Group. (2013). Lutein + zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids for AMD. JAMA, 309(19), 2005–2015.