When the macula deteriorates, central vision becomes blurred, distorted, or lost, while peripheral (side) vision typically remains unaffected. AMD doesn’t cause total blindness, but the loss of central vision can significantly impact daily life.
At Pure Sight Eye Surgeons, our team diagnoses and manages all stages of macular degeneration, including ongoing monitoring and treatment with intravitreal injections for wet AMD. Dr Adam Plant and Dr Joanne Teong both have subspecialty expertise in retinal diseases and medical retina, making them well suited to manage this condition.
Types of Macular Degeneration
Dry AMD
Dry AMD is the more common form, accounting for approximately 85 to 90 per cent of cases. It develops when small yellow deposits called drusen accumulate under the retina. Over time, these deposits can cause the photoreceptor cells in the macula to thin and break down, leading to a gradual loss of central vision.
Dry AMD tends to progress slowly. In the early stages, you may not notice any change in your vision. As it advances, you may find it harder to read, see in dim light, or recognise faces. In some people, dry AMD can progress to the more rapidly progressive wet form.
Wet AMD
Wet AMD occurs when drusen deposits attract abnormal blood vessels that grow beneath the macula. These new vessels are fragile and prone to leaking fluid and blood, which damages the macula and can cause rapid, severe vision loss over a matter of days or weeks. Although wet AMD accounts for only 10 to 15 per cent of cases, it was historically responsible for the majority of legal blindness from macular degeneration.
Effective treatments introduced in the mid-2000s have significantly changed the outlook for patients with wet AMD. These treatments involve injecting medication directly into the eye to stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce leakage.
Risk Factors
- Age — the risk increases significantly after age 55
- Family history — having a close relative with AMD increases your risk
- Smoking — one of the strongest modifiable risk factors
- Sun exposure — prolonged UV exposure over many years may contribute
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Obesity — may increase the risk of progression
Symptoms
AMD typically develops without pain or redness. Symptoms may include:
- Blurred or fuzzy central vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted (a characteristic sign of wet AMD)
- A dark or empty spot in the centre of your vision
- Difficulty reading, even with glasses
- Colours appearing less vivid
- Needing brighter light for close-up tasks
If you notice a sudden change in your vision, particularly distortion of straight lines, you should seek assessment urgently. This may indicate wet AMD, which requires prompt treatment.
Diagnosis
AMD is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination including dilated retinal examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT), Amsler grid testing, and, when indicated, fluorescein angiography.
Treatment
Dry AMD
There is currently no cure for dry AMD. Management focuses on monitoring, slowing progression where possible (dietary supplements, healthy diet, not smoking, UV protection), and regular OCT monitoring to detect any progression to wet AMD.
Wet AMD
Wet AMD is treated with intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF medication. Treatment typically begins with a series of monthly injections, followed by ongoing monitoring and treatment at intervals determined by your doctor’s assessment. Anti-VEGF treatment can stabilise vision and, in many cases, lead to improvement. The key is early detection and prompt treatment.
Self-Monitoring with the Amsler Grid
If you’ve been diagnosed with AMD or are at higher risk, your doctor may recommend using an Amsler grid at home. This is a simple grid of straight lines with a dot in the centre. By looking at it regularly (one eye at a time), you can detect early signs of distortion. If you notice any new waviness or missing areas, contact our rooms promptly.
Emerging Treatments for Dry Macular Degeneration
While there is currently no cure for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), advances in technology are providing new ways to support visual function in selected patients, particularly those with geographic atrophy.
One such option is MacuMira® microcurrent therapy—a non-invasive, in-clinic treatment designed to support retinal cell function and improve visual performance in patients with dry AMD.
At Pure Sight Eye Surgeons, we are among the first clinics in Australia to offer this emerging technology, reflecting our commitment to innovation and providing patients with access to advanced, state-of-the-art retinal treatments.
Treatment is delivered over a short series of sessions and does not involve injections or surgery, making it a well-tolerated option for suitable patients. Careful assessment, including detailed retinal imaging such as OCT, is performed to determine whether this treatment is appropriate and to monitor response over time.
Learn more about MacuMira treatment for dry AMD here
Frequently Asked Questions
Can macular degeneration be prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent AMD, but you can reduce your risk by not smoking, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids, exercising regularly, and managing blood pressure.
Will I go completely blind from macular degeneration?
AMD affects central vision but typically leaves peripheral vision intact. Total blindness is rare. However, advanced AMD can make tasks requiring detailed central vision very difficult.
How often do I need intravitreal injections for wet AMD?
Treatment schedules vary. Initially, injections are usually given monthly for a loading phase. After that, the interval is adjusted based on your response. Your doctor will tailor the schedule to your individual needs.
Are there any new treatments for dry macular degeneration?
While there is currently no cure for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), emerging therapies are becoming available for selected patients. One such option is microcurrent stimulation (MacuMira®), a non-invasive treatment designed to support retinal function and improve visual performance.
At Pure Sight Eye Surgeons, we are pleased to offer this advanced technology as part of our commitment to providing patients with access to the latest developments in retinal care.
Suitability for treatment is determined through a comprehensive assessment, including detailed retinal imaging, to ensure the most appropriate and effective approach for each individual.
Learn more about MacuMira treatment for dry AMD here