Macular degeneration affects the macula. The macula is the center of the retina. It helps you see things straight ahead, like people’s faces, the road when you drive, and images on TV. The retina sends what you see to your brain.

Many things can lead to ARMD. As eyes age, the risk goes up. About one-third of people age 75 and older have ARMD. Smoking and high blood pressure also raise your risk.

There are two types of ARMD: “dry” (nonexudative) and “wet” (exudative). The type depends on how your retina looks during an eye exam.

Dry Macular Degeneration

• This is the most common type. About 80 to 90 percent of people with ARMD have this type.
• Dry ARMD causes the macula to thin over time. This leads to slow vision loss.
• People with this type of ARMD should:
• Tell their healthcare provider right away if their vision changes. Dry ARMD can turn into “wet” ARMD, which is more serious.
• Check their vision regularly.
• Get regular eye exams so problems can be found early.

Wet Macular Degeneration

• About 10 to 20 percent of people with ARMD have this type.
• Wet ARMD causes the macula to thin. It also causes harmful blood vessels to grow under the retina.
• Wet ARMD can cause fast and serious vision loss that can lead to blindness. You need to see a doctor right away. Early treatment can help prevent permanent vision loss.

Geographic macula

Most people with ARMD who go blind (about 90%) have the wet type. But about 10% go blind from a condition called geographic atrophy (GA). GA is a severe form of dry ARMD. It happens when the cells in the macula break down and stop working, leading to blindness. 

Last Updated May 2026