Which visual change is typically seen in a patient with macular degeneration?

In patients with macular degeneration, central vision loss is a hallmark symptom. This condition specifically affects the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision needed for activities such as reading and recognizing faces. As the macula deteriorates, individuals often experience blurry or distorted central vision, leading to difficulties in visual tasks that require detailed sight.

Unlike other conditions that affect vision, such as glaucoma (which primarily impacts peripheral vision), macular degeneration's impact is focused on the central field, while peripheral vision may remain intact. Thus, the correct identification of central vision loss as a key visual change is essential for understanding the typical presentations of macular degeneration.