Age Related Macular Degeneration

Macula Degeneration is a disease of the retina which occurs more commonly as we age. It can cause reduction in eyesight to a variable degree – some are affected mildly and will only gradually change with the years, whereas others can lose central eye sight more severely and more rapidly.

Common symptoms are central distortion of straight lines and blurred vision, and it is sensible to seek a review from an optometrist or eye doctor within the first week of symptoms. If your ophthalmologist finds evidence of ‘wet’ macular degeneration, they will discuss the risks and benefits of eye injections to reduce the risk of potential vision loss. These medicines (Avastin or Eylea) contain antibodies to the new blood vessels which form in ‘wet’ macular degeneration.

The best resource to use for further information is http://mdnz.org.nz/.