What is Age-related Macular Degeneration?

Most of us have heard of Macular Degeneration, or may know someone who has it...but do you actually know what it is?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a painless eye condition that causes you to lose central vision, usually in both eyes. This sight loss usually happens gradually over time, although it can sometimes be rapid. AMD doesn't affect your peripheral vision (side vision), which means it will not cause complete blindness. Macular degeneration develops when the part of the eye responsible for central vision (the macula) is unable to function as effectively as it used to. There are two main types – dry AMD and wet AMD. There is currently no treatment for Dry AMD, but we can manage it's progression and help with Low Vision Aids to keep life as normal as possible. In the case of Wet AMD then time is critical to start treatment and minimise vision loss.

For reasons that are unclear, AMD tends to be more common in women than men. It's also more common in Caucasian and Chinese people. The condition is most common in people over the age of 50. It's estimated 1 in every 10 people over 65 have some degree of AMD.

Urquharts now offer a Macular Management Clinic to closely monitor patients with Age Related Macular Degeneration. This service includes MacuShield supplements and two Premium Eye Examinations per year. Our Premium Eye Exam includes a comprehensive 3D scan of the macula which can be used to monitor subtle changes which may be difficult to detect with conventional methods of viewing the macula. MacuShield is the UK’s most recommended eye supplement. Urquharts will send them directly to your home. One capsule is taken daily with food, which combines all three macula carotenoids in a formula developed in collaboration with leading eye experts. Although nothing can stop Dry AMD, these supplements can slow down the progression.

Book your Premium Eye Exam appointment now and find out more about out Macular Management Clinic.