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Another condition which may affect the aging eye is macular degeneration. This occurs when the central point of focus on the retina (called the macula) is damaged.
Signs of macular degeneration are...
* Loss of color visual clarity, and
* A dark or empty area or blurred
vision in the center of the visual field.
One reason macular degeneration often goes unnoticed is because it usually affects only one eye. In this case, the "good" eye compensates for the affected eye, allowing the problem to go unnoticed by the patient. This is one reason annual eye examinations are recommended after age 40.
Treatment of macular degeneration may include the use of optical aids. In severe cases, laser surgery may be required.
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