Macular Degeneration

The macula is the tiny area of the retina that is very sensitive to color and detail. For example, we use our macula when we look at the finest print. The rest of the retina is more sensitive to movement and provides us with our night vision.

There are many types of macular degeneration, but by far the most common is Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). We all get this to some extent as we get older. But, of course, AMD affects some people earlier in life more than others.

There are two main types of AMD, Wet and Dry. Wet AMD can be helped if caught early enough. This is one of the reasons why your eye care practitioner advises regular checks after the age of 60 years, usually annually. You should also always seek advice if you see a sudden deterioration in you vision, such as a straight line appearing wavy.

Dry AMD is more difficult to treat but is generally less damaging to sight. It is also more common.

One of the most effective ways to detect subtle macular changes, and differentiate the plethora of different types of macular pathology is by utilizing the new technology of spectral domain optical coherence tomography Cirrus HD-OCT.

We therefore recommend that anyone with early macular degeneration have a regular eye examination including Cirrus OCT. The Cirrus OCT also assists us to differentially diagnose conditions such as macular hole, pseudo-hole, lamellar hole, macular pucker (cellophane maculopathy) and vitreo-retinal traction, to name just a few.

We are often able to help patients with AMD see better with a range of Low Vision Aids. We are also able to offer general advice on diet, vitamin supplementation and general health as it relates to reduce the aging process in the eye. We are happy to dispense home Amsler Grid tests for daily self monitoring to catch Wet AMD at its earliest point.