About ARMD

This is a simulation of how macular disease may affect your vision.

The central part of the retina that we use for seeing things in fine detail (for reading, writing, driving, and recognising faces and colours, is called the macular). Macular Disease (MD) is the collective term for several conditions which cause damage to the cells of the macular, thus affecting the central vision. MD is the most common cause of sight loss in the UK and the age-related form of macular disease (ARMD) is the leading cause of sight loss amongst older people. At the moment there is no cure for ARMD but drug therapy, laser treatment or other medical treatment may, in some cases, be able to slow down or halt the disease.

Macular Disease causes blurred, distorted or dim vision and may progress slowly. It’s not painful so the affected person may not notice any changes at first. Regular sight tests should pick up any changes in vision.

You can check your vision at home using an Amsler Grid. Further information may be found at http://www.armd.org.uk/.

The Macular Disease Society is a national support group for people with Macular Disease. There is also a Sheffield Macular Group which meets most months and usually has a guest speaker.