Dilated macular examination
The macula is examined for drusen, pigment change, bleeding or fluid.
Macula care
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Monitoring and treatment for dry and wet AMD.
Specialist care · Advanced technology
Macular degeneration
Understanding the condition
Clear information for confident decisions.
AMD affects the macula, the central area responsible for detailed vision.
01Affected areaMacula responsible for central detail
02Main formsDry AMD and neovascular (wet) AMD
03Important symptomNew distortion or central blur
04MonitoringOCT imaging and home awareness
Symptoms
What you may notice.
Symptoms vary between people, and some conditions cause no early warning. A specialist examination is needed for an accurate diagnosis.
01
Straight lines appearing wavy or bent
02
Blurred or missing central vision
03
Difficulty reading or recognising faces
04
Reduced contrast or need for brighter light
05
A new central grey or dark patch
Causes and risk factors
What may increase your risk.
Having a risk factor does not confirm the condition. Your history and examination are considered together.
01Increasing age and family history
02Smoking
03Cardiovascular risk factors
04Certain retinal features identified during examination
Assessment01 02 03 04
How it is diagnosed.
OCT scan
High-resolution imaging detects fluid and maps retinal layers.
Retinal photography
Photographs document appearance and support comparison over time.
Angiographic imaging
Dye or OCT angiography may help identify abnormal vessels when wet AMD is suspected.
Aftercare
Recovery and follow-up.
01
Monitor each eye separately as instructed and report new distortion promptly.
02
Attend injection and OCT appointments on the recommended schedule.
03
After injection, mild grittiness can occur; increasing pain or redness needs urgent advice.
04
Continue general-health measures and use prescribed supplements only after professional advice.
Common questions
Answers with clarity.
These answers are general. Your own care plan may differ after examination.
01Does AMD cause total blindness?+
AMD affects central detail rather than usually removing all peripheral vision, but it can significantly affect daily activities.
02Can dry AMD become wet AMD?+
Yes. A new rapid visual change or distortion should be assessed promptly.
03Do injections cure wet AMD?+
They control abnormal vessel activity; repeated treatment and monitoring are often required.
04Should everyone take eye vitamins?+
No. AREDS2-type supplements are recommended only for selected stages and should be discussed with an eye-care professional.