Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a chronic and painless disease of the macula. The macula makes up a small area in the centre of the retina, at the back of your eye, and is responsible for clear vision needed for activities such as driving, reading and recognising faces. As AMD progresses, the macula deteriorates, causing blurred or distorted central vision, while peripheral vision may remain unaffected. The loss of central vision may cause trouble with reading, watching TV and recognising faces. However, AMD alone does not lead to total vision loss (black blindness). The progression of AMD varies; for some people, it develops slowly and doesn’t affect their vision much. For others, it can advance quickly, causing central vision loss in one or both eyes.
Symptoms of AMD​​​​
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Blurred or distorted central vision, especially when looking directly at objects
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Difficulty seeing in low light
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Straight lines appearing wavy
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Difficulty recognizing faces or colours​​
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Dark or blurred patches in the centre of your vision
Causes of AMD
Getting older increases your chances of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). While it affects people over 50, it's not an automatic part of aging. Age is the main risk factor, followed by family history. You can't control these, but smoking is another major risk factor – and the one you can influence. In fact, quitting smoking is the most significant way to reduce your AMD risk.

AMD Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Early AMD often goes unnoticed. This is why regular eye exams, including a macular health check, are crucial for early detection. Our optometrists can detect and diagnose AMD through a comprehensive eye exam, including vision assessment and imaging techniques such as retinal photography and optical coherent tomography (OCT).
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There are two main types of age-related macular degeneration (AMD): wet and dry.
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Dry AMD: This is the more common form of AMD and progresses more slowly. As you age, the macula can become thinner, and drusen, which are waste deposits, can accumulate. While early dry AMD may not affect your overall vision much, it's important to monitor because it can worsen over time.
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Wet AMD: This is a more serious form of AMD. Abnormal blood vessels grow behind the macula, the part of your eye responsible for central vision. These vessels can leak fluid or blood, causing scarring and rapid vision loss. Fortunately, there are treatments available, like anti-VEGF injections, that can help stop the growth of these blood vessels and slow the progression of wet AMD.
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While regular eye exams are essential, you can also monitor your central vision at home between visits with an Amsler grid. This simple tool is free and easy to use, allowing you to detect any changes in your sight early. Ask one of our Optometrists for a FREE Amsler grid from the Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA).
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Treatment options depend on the type and severity of AMD.
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Dry AMD: There is no cure, but managing risk factors like diet and smoking cessation can slow progression.
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Wet AMD: Injections of medication into the eye can help prevent further vision loss. Our optometrists will assist in facilitating referral to an Ophthalmologist for this procedure.
Don't wait for vision problems to impact your child's learning and development. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam today! Early intervention with an optometrist can ensure your child sees the world clearly.
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