Macular Degeneration

Dry Macular Degeneration is a condition that affects the macula, which is the central part of your retina. The macula helps you see things clearly and in detail.

To diagnose macular degeneration, your ophthalmologist will review your symptoms and perform a comprehensive eye examination. This includes a dilated eye exam, vision testing, an OCT (optical coherence tomography), and a slip-lap examination. These tests can help determine if you have macular degeneration and what type it is.

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of macular degeneration. Common signs include:

• blurred or distorted central vision
• difficulty seeing fine details
• dark or empty area in the centre of your vision

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no cure for dry macular degeneration. However, there are treatments available that can help slow down the progression of the disease and manage the symptoms. These may include oral medications, certain types of vision aids, and dietary changes.

Wet Macular Degeneration

Wet Macular Degeneration is a condition where abnormal blood vessels start growing under the macula. These blood vessels can leak fluid and blood, causing damage to the macula and leading to vision loss.

To diagnose wet macular degeneration, your ophthalmologist will review your symptoms and perform a comprehensive eye examination. This includes a dilated eye exam, vision testing, an OCT (optical coherence tomography), and a slip-lap examination. These tests can help determine if you have macular degeneration and what type it is.

Symptoms can include:

• sudden or rapid loss of central vision
• distortion in straight lines or objects appearing wavy
• dark or empty spot in the centre of your vision.

Treatment

The current treatment for wet macular degeneration is anti-VEGF injections, which help block the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce leakage, as well as photodynamic therapy or laser surgery in some cases.