Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a condition that causes progressive macular damage resulting in loss of central vision. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Australia with 1 in 7 people over the age of 50 affected to some degree, while incidences increase with age*.

The macular is the central part of the retina, the light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye which processes all central visual images. It enables us to read, recognise faces, drive safely and see colours clearly.

Common symptoms of macular degeneration include distorted or blurred vision, the need to use greater amounts of light to read and central vision loss.

We utilise Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), a non-invasive imaging test to detect macular degeneration. OCT uses light waves to take cross-sectional images of your retina. OCT allows the optometrist to see each of the retina’s distinctive layers and pick up early signs of macular degeneration, which can include fatty deposits known as drusen, pigment cell disruption or leaking blood or fluid.

*Source: Macular Disease Foundation.