Age-related macular degeneration is a chronic but painless disease that affects a special layer of cells in the eye called the retinal pigment epithelium, at the base of the retina. It can cause significant and irreversible loss to your central vision. It can be caused by both genetic and environmental factors.Those with a family history, have a 50% chance of developing AMD.

There are 2 stages to AMD, early and late. In the early stage of AMD progression, the waste products of the retina begin to accumulate underneath the macula. These accumulations clump together and are known as drusen. During an eye examination the drusen appear as yellow spots on your retina. On OCT imaging, these can be seen as small bumps beneath the retina. This early stage of AMD may not cause visual problems but can lead to late-stage AMD.

Loss of vision usually indicates the later stages of AMD. There are two forms of late-stage AMD: Dry and Wet.

In Dry AMD, it is a slow form of the disease which results in a gradual loss of vision. Dry AMD can develop into Wet AMD so regular check-ups and monitoring with an Amsler Grid are important.

Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels from below the retina (the choroid) grow into the retina causing damage. This occurs in response to an imbalance of growth factors and is known as Choroidal Neovascularisation (CNV). These new vessels are fragile and tend to rupture, causing leakage of fluid into the macula, which may lead to scarring and results in loss of central vision.

Visual changes associated with Wet AMD are often sudden and severe. Early detection of Wet AMD is crucial, so if any sudden changes (distortion of straight lines or a blurred patch) occur you should contact us immediately. The earlier treatment is received the more likely a better outcome will occur.