The macula is the portion of the retina responsible for detailed central vision. As we age, the vitreous inside the eye can shrink and pull on the retina, creating a hole in the macula. In its early stages, a macular hole can cause a slight distortion or blurriness in the central vision. Reading, and performing other routine tasks, such as driving, may become difficult. If the condition progresses, patients will experience a loss of central vision. If left untreated, the vision loss from the macular hole can be permanent.

Learn more at the American Academy of Ophthalmology website.