The Gold Coast and Tweed used to be referred to as “God’s waiting room” due to it being a haven for retirees. While the population mix has certainly changed, we still see plenty of more mature patients, and check carefully for a variety of age-related eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. Macular Degeneration, also known as Age-related macular degeneration or (AMD) is a chronic painless eye disease that causes central vision loss and is more common as you get older. Approximately one in seven Australians over the age of 50 have some evidence of AMD. It is a progressive eye disease which affects the macula which is part of the retina - – the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for central vision. This condition can lead to severe vision loss or even blindness. This condition is painless, often progressing slowly and with minimal symptoms, making many unaware that they have macular degeneration until in its advanced stages. This is where early diagnosis and treatment offer the best hope of managing damage.
There are two forms of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Most people experiencing macular degeneration have the dry form. The dry form is characterized by the build-up of yellow deposits, called drusen, in the macula. Over time, these deposits can cause the macula to thin and dry out, leading to vision loss. Wet macular degeneration, on the other hand, is less common but more severe. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak fluid or blood, causing damage to the macula.
Age is a significant risk factor
Age is a significant risk factor for macular degeneration. The condition is more common in people over 60, and the risk increases with age. Other risk factors to you include smoking, a family history of the condition, high blood pressure, and obesity. It is essential for you to maintain a healthy lifestyle and get regular eye exams to detect macular degeneration early.
Symptoms may not be noticeable at first
In the early stages of macular degeneration, you may have symptoms not noticeable, or they may be very mild. As your condition progresses, symptoms may progress to include blurred or distorted vision, a decrease in central vision, difficulty reading, and a loss of colour perception. It is crucial to come and see one of our optometrists if you experience any changes in your vision, even if they seem minor.
Treatment options are available 
While there is no cure for macular degeneration, several treatment options are available to you. For the dry form, antioxidant vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins C and E, zinc, and copper, may help slow the progression of the condition. New therapies for dry AMD are in the final approval process in overseas markets. For wet macular degeneration, treatments may include injections of medication into the eye, or laser therapy. We can assess your needs and recommend the best treatment option for your specific case.
Early detection is key
Early detection is critical in managing macular degeneration. If detected early, treatment options available to you are more effective, and vision loss can be minimized. Regular eye exams are essential in detecting macular degeneration in its early stages. During your eye exam with us, we will check the macula for any signs of the condition and will recommend any necessary treatment or lifestyle changes we believe beneficial for you.
As your optometrists, we feel strongly about raising your awareness of this common eye condition that can have a severe effect on your quality of life. While there is no cure for the condition, treatment options are available, and early detection is critical so come and see us at either Burleigh Waters or Tweed Heads South if you experience any changes in your vision. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting regular eye exams, you can help prevent or manage macular degeneration and maintain healthy vision for years to come.