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What is AMD? - Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

  • Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common condition that affects the middle part of your vision. It usually first affects people in their 50s and 60s.
  • It does not cause total blindness. But it can make everyday activities like reading and recognising faces difficult.
  • Without treatment, your vision may get worse. This can happen gradually over several years ("dry AMD"), or quickly over a few weeks or months ("wet AMD").
  • The exact cause is unknown. It's been linked to smoking, high blood pressure, being overweight and having a family history of AMD.

Page last reviewed: 20 April 2021
Next review due: 20 April 2024