The macula, the area of the retina near the optic nerve at the back of the eye, is the part of the eye that distinguishes fine detail at the center of the field of vision. In some elderly people, the small blood vessels of the eye become constricted and hardened. As a result, the macula does not get enough blood. This blood deficiency caused degeneration of the macula, and blurring of the central vision. In nearly all cases, both eyes are affected. Macular degeneration usually develops gradually and is painless. Most cases of the disease are untreatable, but if you notice the symptoms you should see your doctor right away. More severe forms of macular degeneration require laser treatment.

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