Large black disc in both eyes

[Kwaker]

Hi everyone just introducing myself to all.

I have been told I have the starting very early stages of AMD. What concerns me is my father (who recently passed away) was registered blind and had AMD his mother (my grandmother) was also totally blind from an early age. And I am seeing large round dark/ black disc shaped in my vision after being asleep or having my eyes shut and opening them the problem stays for a minute or two and then disappears, it only occurs at night. Should I be very worried given my family history??

[Macular_1]

Hello Kwaker,

We are occasionally asked about this; a large round dark/ black disc shaped in your vision after being asleep' and as a result we asked a Professor of Ophthalmology what it is.

We are told that the person is 'seeing their area of degeneration (geographic atrophy).

It is apparently nothing to worry about if the 'problem' disappears after a minute or two. If symptoms persist or there is a change in your sight which is permanent, then you must consult at least an optometrist at an opticians.

Other forum users might have experienced the same and may also reassure you.

Best wishes

Macular Society

[Kwaker in reply to Macular_1]

Thanks so much for putting my mind at rest. About 20 years ago my father was told he was suffering from wet AMD and lost his driving license as a result. And then slowly went blind. He lived in Canada until he died late last year. So as you can understand I don't want to be going the same way with my eyesight. So thanks again

[Raemar]

Hi Kwaker,

I also have these black discs and as Macular-1 has said they are nothing to worry about. This was discussed on the forum sometime last year I think, where it transpired quite a few other sufferers have them also.

Take care and good luck with your AMD.