MQ Health Ophthalmology Clinic
- Suite 401, Level 4
- 2 Technology Place
- Macquarie University NSW 2109
- T: + 61 (2) 9812 3933
- E: ophthalmology@mqhealth.org.au
Why choose MQ Health
Integrated health care produces better outcomes for patients
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The leading cause of vision loss in older Australians
The condition affects the macula, located at the centre of the retina. The macula is responsible for the central vision we need for seeing fine detail, reading and driving.
Symptoms
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can cause blurred vision or a distortion in the centre of your vision. If left untreated, the condition can cause irreversible visual loss.
When to see a doctor
As soon as applicable. You should see an ophthalmologist immediately if you notice any visual symptoms or if macular changes are detected by your optometrist or GP.
Causes
AMD is multifactorial. There are many associations identified with AMD, including:
- age
- genetic/family history
- smoking
- nutrition.
Diagnosis
There are two types of macular degeneration:
- Dry form – this is the ‘slower’ form in which the centre of the retina (macula) wears out over time.
- Wet form – in this ‘fast’ form of macular degeneration, abnormal blood vessels leak and bleed under the retina.
Early detection and treatment of wet macular degeneration can help to reduce the severity of vision loss. In some cases, early treatment can also recover or stabilise the vision.
To diagnose macular degeneration, our team will assess your eyes to look for early signs of the disease. You may also need to have special tests such as an OCT, OCT-angiography, or fluorescein angiography, which visualises the blood vessels at the back of your eye.
Treatment
You will be offered the most suitable treatment option, taking into account the specifics of your eye disease and general health.
The most common treatment for wet macular degeneration involves injections of medications into your eye. This is not painful, as anaesthetic is given prior to the procedure.
Risk factors
Obviously we cannot stop ageing or change your genetic makeup. However, to minimise the risk of developing AMD, we do recommend that you stop smoking if you currently smoke, and to improve your dietary intake of Omega 3, Lutein and Zeaxanthin. In addition, we recommend regular eye examinations to detect early signs of AMD.
Current research
References:
- A Pai et al. Complement Factor H and the Bilaterality of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Archives of Ophthalmology. 2009 Oct; 127(10):1339-44.
- N Joachim et al. The incidence and progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration over 15 years: The Blue Mountains Eye Study. Ophthalmology. 2015 Dec; 122(12):2482-9.
