Macular Disease
What is Macular Disease?
Most often caused by Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Macular Disease is a group of degenerative diseases of the retina that cause progressive and painless loss of central vision. It affects the ability to see fine detail, drive, read, and recognise faces.
What causes Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration is typically caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Age, smoking, and poor nutrition (low in antioxidants) are also risk factors.
Macular Disease is one of the leading causes of vision loss in Australia, and typically affects one in seven people over the age of 50. Although there is no cure, there are several treatment options to help slow the progression, depending on the stage and type of the disease (wet vs. dry).
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Treatment for Macular Disease
Here at EyeHub, our lead ophthalmologist, Dr Sonia Moorthy utilises a series of injections into the eye which deliver a potent and effective drug—this is known as anti-VEGF/Ang-2 treatment. This drug works by shutting down the leaky or abnormal vessels in the eye that are responsible for causing vision loss in patients with macular degeneration.
By utilising this treatment approach, we have been able to help many patients maintain their vision and improve their quality of life.
To find out more, visit the Macular Disease Foundation website or view our other resources.
Watch VideoMacular Disease treatment on the Sunshine Coast
At EyeHub, we are proud to offer a wide range of ophthalmology services to patients across the Sunshine Coast. Our lead ophthalmologist, Dr Moorthy, is dedicated to providing the best possible care for her patients.
Whatever your macular concerns, we are confident we can provide you with the support and treatment you need.
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Our Expertise
Comprehensive eye and refractive services for the Sunshine Coast
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to your questions about Macular Disease
What is Macular Degeneration, and how does it affect vision?
Macular Degeneration is a progressive eye condition that damages the macula, the central part of the retina, leading to loss of central vision while peripheral vision remains unaffected.
What are the main types of Macular Degeneration?
The two main types are dry (atrophic) macular degeneration, which progresses slowly, and wet (neovascular) macular degeneration, which involves abnormal blood vessel growth and progresses more rapidly.
What causes Macular Degeneration?
Causes include aging, genetic factors, smoking, high blood pressure, and a diet lacking in nutrients essential for eye health.
Who is at risk of developing Macular Degeneration?
Risk factors include being over the age of 50, having a family history of macular degeneration, being Caucasian, smoking, and having poor cardiovascular health.
What are the symptoms of Macular Degeneration?
Symptoms include blurry or distorted central vision, difficulty recognising faces, dark or empty spots in central vision, and trouble with activities like reading or driving.
How is Macular Degeneration diagnosed?
An eye doctor uses tests such as visual acuity assessments, dilated eye exams, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography to diagnose the condition.
Can Macular Degeneration be treated or cured?
While there is no cure, treatments such as anti-VEGF injections for wet macular degeneration, lifestyle changes, and vision aids can slow progression and improve quality of life.
What is the difference between wet and dry Macular Degeneration?
Dry Macular Degeneration involves the thinning of the macula and buildup of drusen, while Wet Macular Degeneration is characterised by abnormal blood vessels leaking fluid or blood under the retina.
Can lifestyle changes help prevent or slow Macular Degeneration?
Yes! Maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids, avoiding smoking, protecting eyes from UV light, and minimising free radicals can all assist.
What are the latest advancements in treating Macular Degeneration?
Active areas of research include gene therapy and innovative devices like implantable telescopes and retinal implants to improve vision in affected individuals.
