see
our vision
MACULAR DEGENERATION
What is Macular
Degeneration (MD)?
The macula is the central part of the retina,
the light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
The retina processes all visual images. It is
responsible for your ability to read, recognise
faces, drive and see colours clearly. You are
reading this brochure using your macula.
MD causes progressive macular damage
resulting in loss of central vision but the
peripheral vision is not affected.
How common is
MD?
MD is the leading cause of severe vision loss.
One in seven people over the age of 50 years
is affected in some way and the incidence
increases with age.
What are the
types of MD?
There are two types of MD. The Dry form
results in a gradual loss of central vision.
The Wet form is characterised by a sudden
loss of vision and is caused by abnormal
blood vessels growing into the retina.
Immediate medical treatment is essential if
symptoms occur.
What are the
risk factors?
MD is thought to be caused by genetic and
environmental factors. People over the age of
50 years are at risk. If you smoke or have a
family history of MD, your risk of developing
the disease is much greater.
Key symptoms may
include one
or more of the following:
- Diffculty with reading or any other
activity that requires fine vision. - Distortion, where straight lines appear
wavy or bent. - Distinguishing faces becomes a problem.
- Dark patches or empty spaces appear in
the centre of your vision.
If you experience any of these symptoms
contact your eye care specialist immediately.
Macular
Degeneration Eye health checklist
- Have your eyes tested and make
sure the macula is checked. - Don't smoke.
- Keep a healthy lifestyle, control your
weight and exercise regularly. - Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Limit your
intake of fats, eat fish two or three times a
week, eat dark green leafy vegetables and
fresh fruit daily and a handful of nuts a week. - In consultation with your doctor, consider
taking a zinc and antioxidant supplement. - Provide adequate protection for your
eyes from sunlight exposure, especially
when young.
What
treatments are available for MD?
Treatment options are dependent on the
stage and type of the disease. Current
treatments aim to keep the best vision for
as long as possible and in some cases may
potentially provide visual improvement, but
there is presently no cure. Early detection is
vital in saving sight.
Early detection is
important
The early detection of any form of MD
is crucial because the earlier you seek
treatment, the more likely you are to have
a better outcome compared to those
who wait. MD can cause many different
symptoms. Diffculty with your vision
should not be dismissed as part of just
'getting older'. In its early stages MD may
not be noticed but it can be detected in an
eye test before any visual symptoms occur.
Early detection of changes can allow you to
take steps to slow the progression of MD.