Macular degeneration eye checks in Reservoir
Macular degeneration: signs, eye checks and next steps
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula—the central part of the retina used for detailed vision. It can make reading, recognising faces and other close-detail tasks more difficult. Early AMD may not cause noticeable symptoms, so regular eye examinations are important, particularly when risk is higher.
At Reservoir Spectacles, we can assess your vision and macula, explain the findings and arrange an appropriate ophthalmology referral when needed.
What is age-related macular degeneration?
The macula is a small area near the centre of the retina. It provides the detailed central vision used for reading, driving and seeing faces. AMD damages this area. It usually does not affect side vision in the same way, but loss of central detail can still have a major effect on everyday life.
AMD is usually painless. There are two broad forms:
- Dry AMD is the more common form and generally develops gradually.
- Wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessels growing and leaking beneath the macula. It can cause a rapid change in central vision and needs prompt specialist assessment.
An eye examination is needed to distinguish AMD from cataracts, an outdated glasses prescription and other possible causes of visual change.
Symptoms that should be checked
AMD may cause no symptoms at first. Changes can include:
- straight lines appearing wavy, bent or distorted
- blurred or missing patches in the centre of vision
- difficulty reading, even with glasses
- difficulty recognising faces
- needing brighter light for close tasks
- reduced night or colour vision
- a gradual or sudden worsening of central vision
Do not dismiss a new change as simply part of ageing. Contact an eye-care professional promptly, especially if distortion, a dark patch or central blur appears suddenly.
Who may have a higher risk?
Age is an important risk factor, and AMD becomes more common after 50. Risk is also higher for people who smoke or have a parent or sibling with AMD.
Tell your optometrist about your family history, smoking history, medicines and any new visual changes. Your recommended review timing should be based on your individual risk and examination findings.
What may be included in an AMD eye check?
An examination starts with your symptoms, history and the effect vision changes have on daily activities. Depending on the findings, it may include:
Vision and prescription
Checking how clearly you can see and whether an updated prescription improves vision.
Macula and retina assessment
Examining the back of the eyes, including the macula. Pupil dilation may be recommended when a wider view of the retina is needed.
Retinal imaging
Retinal photography or OCT imaging may be used when clinically appropriate to document the retina and look for changes in its layers.
Not every test is required at every visit. We will explain which checks are appropriate and whether monitoring, an earlier review or referral to an ophthalmologist is recommended. Learn more about our comprehensive eye tests.
Monitoring vision at home
An Amsler grid can help some people notice new distortion, blurred areas or missing patches between appointments. It does not diagnose AMD and does not replace professional reviews.
If you have been given an Amsler grid, follow the instructions from your eye-care professional. Report a new or sudden change promptly—even if you have previously been told you have dry AMD.
Treatment and referral
Treatment depends on the type and stage of AMD. Some forms are monitored, while wet AMD may be treated by an ophthalmologist with injections into the eye. Reservoir Spectacles does not provide eye injections; when specialist assessment or treatment is needed, we can assist with an appropriate referral.
Do not start eye-health supplements solely because you are concerned about AMD. Supplements are not suitable for everyone or every stage of the condition. Discuss them with the clinician managing your eyes and tell them about your medicines and health conditions.
When a change needs urgent attention
Call the practice promptly on (03) 9460 8017 if straight lines suddenly look wavy, a new blurred or dark patch appears in central vision, or your central vision changes quickly. These symptoms can have more than one cause, but they should not wait for a routine future review.
Sudden major vision loss, possible stroke symptoms, a penetrating injury, severe trauma or chemical exposure should be directed to an emergency department or 000. See our urgent eye care guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Does AMD cause complete blindness?
AMD primarily affects central vision. It can cause severe visual impairment, but side vision is usually retained. The effect varies between people and depends on the type and stage of disease.
Can glasses cure macular degeneration?
No. Glasses can correct focusing problems and may improve vision when the prescription has changed, but they do not treat damage to the macula.
Do I need an eye check if I have no symptoms?
Yes. Early AMD may not cause symptoms. Regular eye examinations are particularly important if you are over 50 or have a family history of AMD.
Is an Amsler grid a replacement for an eye examination?
No. It is a home-monitoring aid. Continue the review schedule recommended by your optometrist or ophthalmologist and report new changes promptly.
Arrange an eye examination in Reservoir
If central vision has changed, straight lines look distorted, or you have a family history of macular degeneration, arrange an eye examination. Reservoir Spectacles is at 2C Edwardes Street, Reservoir VIC 3073.
You may also find our pages on cataracts and glaucoma eye checks helpful.