Letters blending together while reading, straight lines appearing distorted or difficulty recognizing familiar faces are often mistaken for a natural part of aging.

Age-related macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. Because the disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, it is usually detected only during a comprehensive eye examination. As it advances, symptoms such as difficulty reading, letters appearing blurred together, straight lines looking wavy or distorted, objects appearing different than they are and trouble recognizing faces may develop. If left untreated, the disease can lead to permanent loss of central vision. While advancing age and genetic predisposition are the leading risk factors, smoking remains the most important preventable risk. Avoiding smoking, maintaining a balanced diet and having regular eye examinations all play an important role in reducing both the risk of developing the disease and the rate at which it progresses. Age-related macular degeneration occurs in two forms: dry and wet. In the more slowly progressing dry form, regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle habits and appropriate vitamin supplementation are important. In the wet form, however, modern intravitreal therapies can preserve vision to a great extent. Newly developed treatment options have also made the treatment process more comfortable for patients in recent years. Experts recommend that everyone aged 55 and older undergo regular eye examinations, even if they have no symptoms. A balanced diet rich in green leafy vegetables, omega-3-rich fish and antioxidant-containing foods also supports eye health. Even the slightest changes in vision should not be dismissed as a normal part of aging. Early diagnosis and timely treatment remain the most important factors in preserving vision in age-related macular degeneration.

August 2026