macular degeneration
The macula is the tiny area of the retina that is very sensitive to colour 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 commonest is Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMRD). We all get this to some extent as we get older. A bit like grey hair and wrinkles. But of course ARMD affects some people earlier in life or more than others,
There are two main types of ARMD, “wet” and “dry”. Sometimes the “wet” type can be helped with laser or photodynamic therapy 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 ARMD 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 utilising the new technology of optical coherence tomography Stratus OCT.
We therefore recommend that anyone with early macular degeneration of those with a family history of age related macular degeneration (ARMD) have a regular eye examination including Stratus OCT.
The Stratus 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 ARMD see better with a range of Low Vision Aids. We are also able to offer general advice on diet to try and reduce the ageing process in the eye. Please ask your optometrist.
