A: Macular degeneration is caused by aging-related macular nerve damage. Although experts are still studying the link between aging and this damage, the process leading to this damage has been broken down by AMD type.

There are two types of AMD:

Dry macular degeneration is caused by aging-related macular cells breakdown. Waste deposits from this breakdown accumulate and eventually this buildup damages the macula. This is the most common form of AMD.

Wet macular degeneration occurs when an abnormally high growth factor causes new, fragile blood vessels to form under the macula. These vessels often break, leaking blood and fluid. This leakage inhibits the macula’s cells’ light-sensitive functioning, causing blind spots in central vision.

This form is much rarer than dry AMD.