Age-related Macular Degeneration - Tamworth Eye Centre

What is Macular Degeneration?

The macula is the central part of the retina. It is highly sensitive and responsible for processing all visual images. Vision from the macular is needed to drive, read, the recognition of faces and similar activities. The progressive damage to the macula from macular degeneration results in loss of central vision, however, it does not affect the peripheral vision.

There are two types of macular degeneration commonly called ‘dry’ and ‘wet’ macular degeneration.

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Dry macular degeneration develops gradually over years. It is caused by small yellow deposits known as drusen. Dry macular degeneration results in a gradual loss in vision.

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Wet macular degeneration is caused by the formation of fragile blood vessels which leak fluid and blood within and under the retina. This often leads to a rapid loss of central vision. Immediate medical treatment is essential if symptoms occur.

What treatments are available for Macular Degeneration?

The type of macular degeneration you have will determine the type of treatment options that are recommended for you.

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There is no current treatment or cure for dry macular degeneration, however, nutrition plays an important role in optimising your macular health. A well-balanced diet, with daily intake of green leafy vegetables and fruit, eating fish two to three times a week and handful of nuts a week can assist with keeping your eyes healthy.

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There is treatment available for wet macular degeneration, however, it is important to remember that these treatments do not cure the disease but aim to stabilise and maintain the best vision for as long as possible.

A protein called Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, or VEGF, is mainly responsible for the growth and leaking of new blood vessels that result in a rapid loss of vision.

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To stop or slow this process, various drugs that block the protein, called anti-VEGFs, may be injected into the eye. There are several anti-VEGF drugs used to treat wet macular degeneration in Australia. Your ophthalmologist will discuss with you the most appropriate drug.

Young child and older woman showing their vision

What is Macular Degeneration?

The macula is the central part of the retina. It is highly sensitive and responsible for processing all visual images. Vision from the macular is needed to drive, read, the recognition of faces and similar activities. The progressive damage to the macula from macular degeneration results in loss of central vision, however, it does not affect the peripheral vision.

Scroll Down

There are two types of macular degeneration commonly called ‘dry’ and ‘wet’ macular degeneration.

‍

Dry macular degeneration develops gradually over years. It is caused by small yellow deposits known as drusen. Dry macular degeneration results in a gradual loss in vision.

‍

Wet macular degeneration is caused by the formation of fragile blood vessels which leak fluid and blood within and under the retina. This often leads to a rapid loss of central vision. Immediate medical treatment is essential if symptoms occur.

Scroll Down

What treatments are available for Macular Degeneration?

The type of macular degeneration you have will determine the type of treatment options that are recommended for you.

‍

There is no current treatment or cure for dry macular degeneration, however, nutrition plays an important role in optimising your macular health. A well-balanced diet, with daily intake of green leafy vegetables and fruit, eating fish two to three times a week and handful of nuts a week can assist with keeping your eyes healthy.

‍

There is treatment available for wet macular degeneration, however, it is important to remember that these treatments do not cure the disease but aim to stabilise and maintain the best vision for as long as possible.

Scroll Down

A protein called Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, or VEGF, is mainly responsible for the growth and leaking of new blood vessels that result in a rapid loss of vision.

‍

To stop or slow this process, various drugs that block the protein, called anti-VEGFs, may be injected into the eye. There are several anti-VEGF drugs used to treat wet macular degeneration in Australia. Your ophthalmologist will discuss with you the most appropriate drug.

Scroll Down

What treatments are available for Macular Degeneration?

The type of macular degeneration you have will determine the type of treatment options that are recommended for you.

‍

There is no current treatment or cure for dry macular degeneration, however, nutrition plays an important role in optimising your macular health. A well-balanced diet, with daily intake of green leafy vegetables and fruit, eating fish two to three times a week and handful of nuts a week can assist with keeping your eyes healthy.

There is treatment available for wet macular degeneration, however, it is important to remember that these treatments do not cure the disease but aim to stabilise and maintain the best vision for as long as possible.

‍

A protein called Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, or VEGF, is mainly responsible for the growth and leaking of new blood vessels that result in a rapid loss of vision.

‍

To stop or slow this process, various drugs that block the protein, called anti-VEGFs, may be injected into the eye. There are several anti-VEGF drugs used to treat wet macular degeneration in Australia. Your ophthalmologist will discuss with you the most appropriate drug.