Geographic atrophy (GA) is a condition that causes vision loss beginning in the outer retina and progressing over time. It is considered a late-stage form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Most individuals who develop AMD do so as they grow older. Aging increases the risk of damage to the part of the retina responsible for central vision and sharp visual detail.

Approximately 160,000 people are diagnosed with GA each year. The condition can create significant challenges, making daily activities more difficult due to reduced vision. If you notice symptoms such as blurry areas or trouble seeing at night, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. Although GA cannot be reversed, treatment may help slow its progression.

Early Symptoms

A diagnosis of geographic atrophy typically means vision loss is already noticeable. Early-stage AMD or GA often presents no symptoms. However, some individuals may experience early warning signs, including:

  • difficulty seeing in low-light environments

  • trouble reading under dim lighting

Because early symptoms can be subtle or absent, regular annual eye exams are essential. Routine visits with an optometrist or ophthalmologist can detect changes in eye health before significant damage occurs.

Progressive Symptoms

As GA advances, symptoms become more pronounced. You may begin to experience:

  • distorted lines that appear wavy or crooked

  • blurry central vision

  • duller color perception

  • difficulty seeing in dark conditions

  • reduced sharpness or contrast in objects

Over time, these symptoms may worsen, and you might need brighter lighting to see clearly. Because GA can progress quickly, early detection and treatment are key to slowing vision loss.

End-Stage Symptoms

In its final stage, GA can lead to legal blindness. Before full central vision loss occurs, you may notice difficulty performing routine tasks, such as:

  • reading

  • driving

  • cooking and cleaning

  • recognizing faces

  • watching television

  • navigating safely while walking

  • viewing screens like your phone or computer

While treatment at this stage may be less effective, seeing an eye care provider early can help preserve remaining vision and quality of life.

Other Symptoms and Complications

Vision loss caused by GA can lead to emotional distress, including frustration, anxiety, and depression. Adjusting to decreased independence can be difficult. Support from a mental health professional may be beneficial for those experiencing emotional changes.

Geographic atrophy can also increase the risk of Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS), a condition where individuals with vision loss experience visual hallucinations. These hallucinations are not related to mental illness. If this occurs, inform your eye care provider to explore treatment options.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

If you suspect you may have GA or are experiencing vision changes, reach out to an eye care provider. Sharing your symptoms and undergoing a vision test can help determine next steps.

Attending yearly eye exams is a proactive way to monitor vision health and detect issues like GA before they worsen.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

If you're preparing for a visit with your eye care provider, consider asking the following questions:

  • Can geographic atrophy occur without having AMD?

  • Why does vision decline with age?

  • What actions can I take to slow down vision loss?

  • What treatment options are currently available?

  • What can I do to manage daily tasks despite my reduced vision?

A Quick Review

Geographic atrophy (GA) is a progressive eye condition that can eventually result in central vision loss and legal blindness. It is a late-stage form of age-related macular degeneration, a condition commonly affecting older adults.

Because GA may not cause symptoms early on, regular eye exams are crucial for early detection. When symptoms do appear, they may include poor night vision, blurry spots, and trouble seeing in low light. Early diagnosis and adherence to treatment can help slow the disease's progression and preserve vision for as long as possible.