In the early stages of macular degeneration, there are few or no symptoms. However, your eye doctor can detect it early through an eye exam.

For people with intermediate or advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD), vision loss may be incorrectly interpreted as the normal aging process or development of a cataract. Therefore, early diagnosis is key because once your vision is lost, it can't be restored.

If you're over age 50, you should see an eye doctor regularly, particularly if you're at risk for macular degeneration. During the exam, your eye doctor can check for the early stages of macular degeneration through the presence of drusen. If your doctor suspects you have vision loss due to AMD, he may perform a test. A common test, the Amsler grid, determines areas of distorted or reduced vision that are common symptoms of macular degeneration. The Amsler grid, however, should never replace regularly scheduled eye exams.

Regular visits to your eye doctor can catch serious eye conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration, that may not have visible symptoms. See your ophthalmologist immediately if you experience vision changes. It could be a symptom of disease. Some eye care providers can only prescribe corrective eyeglasses, so you should see a medical eye doctor (also known as an ophthalmologist) for diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions. Macular degeneration, as well as other eye conditions, can be treated when found in the early stages.

Don't take chances with your vision. Visit your eye doctor regularly.