Macular Degeneration (AMD)

What is the macula?

The macula is the most detail-sensitive part of the retina. When the macula is affected, it can impact central vision (fine detail), while side (peripheral) vision is often less affected.

Types of macular degeneration

Dry AMD

Dry AMD is the more common form. It typically progresses gradually and may involve small deposits (drusen) and thinning changes in the macula. Monitoring is important so we can track progression and watch for signs of change.

Wet AMD

Wet AMD is less common but more urgent. It can develop when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, which may cause faster vision changes. If wet AMD is suspected, prompt evaluation by a retina specialist is often needed.

Symptoms of macular degeneration

AMD can affect each person differently. Common symptoms include:

• Distortion or “waviness” in straight lines (door frames, blinds, lamp posts)

• Blurry central vision or trouble reading fine print

• A dark, missing, or blurry spot in the center of vision

• Needing brighter light to read

• Colors looking less vivid

• Difficulty with contrast (especially in dim lighting)

• Words disappearing or “breaking up” while reading
  
  

If you notice sudden distortion or a rapid change in central vision, call us promptly.

How we evaluate AMD at Michigan Eye Consultants

AMD care is about early detection + precise monitoring. We use tools that look at both retinal structure (what it looks like) and function (how well it’s working):

Maestro 2 OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)

A high-resolution, layer-by-layer scan of the macula. OCT helps us detect subtle changes—like thinning, swelling, or fluid—and track them over time.
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Optomap® Ultra-Widefield Retinal Imaging

A wide view photo of the retina that helps us document overall retinal health and identify additional findings that can influence monitoring and care.

Rabin Cone Contrast Test

Measures color and contrast sensitivity, which can be affected early in macular disease. This can add useful information beyond the standard eye chart.

RetEval ERG (Electroretinography)

A functional test that measures how well the retina responds to light. ERG can provide additional insight in select cases when we want to evaluate retinal function more deeply.

Can you reduce your risk of AMD?

You can’t change every risk factor (like age or family history), but healthy habits can support long-term retinal health. We commonly recommend:

• Don’t smoke (or quit if you do)

• Eat a heart-healthy diet (especially leafy greens and colorful fruits/vegetables)

• Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol

• Stay active and maintain a healthy weight

• Protect eyes from UV exposure with quality sunglasses outdoors

• Keep up with regular eye exams, especially if you have risk factors
  
  

If we find certain levels of macular change, we’ll discuss whether specific nutrition strategies or supplements may be appropriate for you.