Macular Degeneration

The Macular is the central portion of your retina, lining the inside of your eye. It is responsible for sharp and detailed central vision and is used for reading, driving, facial recognition and seeing objects in fine detail. 

Macular degeneration or Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when the macular is damaged, leading to the progressive loss of central vision. Peripheral vision remains intact.

Risk Factors

It is usually related to aging, and the majority of patients with AMD are over 50 years old. Smoking, family history and deficient nutrients in your diet also increase the risk of AMD.

Types of Age-Related Macular degeneration?

  • Early ‘Dry’ AMD

This is caused by the progressive build-up of waste material (drusen) under the macula and thinning of the retina at the macula. Patients with Dry AMD have near normal vision or mild sight loss. Changes to diet and lifestyle can help to slow the progression of the disease at this stage.

  • Late ‘Dry’ AMD

This is when the disease has progressed slowly, usually over many years. Vision is affected as the cells in the macula die in patches, resulting in patches of missing vision and faded and unfocused images. 

  • Late ‘Wet’ AMD

This occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow underneath the retina. These unhealthy vessels leak blood and fluid which can prevent the retina from working properly. Scar tissue forms in and around the macular leading to sudden and severe permanent loss of central vision. The ability to see in the periphery will remain.

Symptoms of AMD

AMD usually occurs in both eyes but may start in one eye first. Symptoms may not be obvious. Some common symptoms include:

  • Straight lines appearing wavy
  • Central vision is blurred or fuzzy
  • Difficulty recognising faces
  • Blurred or blind spot in the centre of vision.

Treatment/management

Western Sydney Eye Doctors is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enable early detection and correct diagnosis of Macular degeneration. Urgent and follow-up treatment can be provided at our practice.