Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of legal blindness in Australians over 55 years old.
The condition causes the loss of central vision but leaves the peripheral vision unaffected.
It does not cause black-blindness, just significant blur. A person with macular degeneration will have difficulty seeing faces, reading books, watching TV, and identifying street signs while driving.
Age-related macular degeneration can only be diagnosed through an eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. An eye health professional is qualified to give the best advice to reduce a person’s risk of developing, or worsening of their macular degeneration.
Early detection is critical as age-related macular degeneration has no symptoms in its early stages. So, it’s important to have regular eye examinations.
The Macular Disease Foundation Australia recommends you have an eye examination annually if you are over the age of 65.
If macular degeneration is detected, your optometrist will recommend the best management options.
This will include a discussion on reducing your risk factors for macular degeneration, including smoking, diet and lifestyle changes, UV protection, or if required, a referral to an eye specialist for further treatment.
Treatments are available for the rarer and more aggressive form, called wet age-related macular degeneration, which also tends to occur in the later stages of the condition.
New research is being conducted on treatments for the more common, slow form called dry age-related macular degeneration.
If you haven’t had your eye health checked recently or have any concerns or queries about macular degeneration and your eye health, make an eye appointment with an independent optometrist today.
Charlie Muecke is an independent optometrist located at Noosa Optical in Noosa Junction.
