Specialist management and care for age-related macular degeneration in Melbourne.
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Specialist management and care for age-related macular degeneration Melbourne.
Age-related macular degeneration is a disease affecting the macula, an anatomical area of the retina that is responsible for central vision and the discrimination of fine detail and colour. The underlying causes for macular degeneration are not yet fully understood but it is thought that oxidative stress and the build-up of toxic waste material in the layers of the retina supporting the macula. This results in progressive degeneration of the tissues of the macula and subsequent deterioration of central vision.
Risk factors for the presence of macular degeneration include a family history of this disease, older age, and a history of smoking.
Although the severity of age-related macular degeneration can range from early to advanced, there are two categories used by doctors, which guide advice and treatment.
- The dry (atrophic) form involves an accumulation of waste material within the retina in granules known as drusen. This causes a gradual loss of cells from the macula and, as the disease progresses, can result in a slow loss of central vision.
- The wet (neovascular) form of macular degeneration involves the formation of new fragile blood vessels which have the propensity to leak blood and fluid beneath the retina. This can cause a sudden and severe loss of central vision in the affected eye.
Unfortunately, the vision loss from either dry or wet macular degeneration is irreversible, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial for our patients with macular degeneration Melbourne.
Management with our Macular Degeneration Specialists in Melbourne
At Armadale Eye Clinic, our retinal specialist ophthalmologists have undergone extensive training both locally and internationally and have the knowledge and expertise to provide management for our macular degeneration patients.
While research continues in the treatment of macular degeneration, there is currently no known cure for this disease. However, our eye doctors recommend close monitoring with an appropriately trained clinician and can offer referral to supportive services to aid those having difficulties with daily tasks due to vision loss.
At the current time, patients with the dry form of macular degeneration are advised to make certain lifestyle and dietary modifications where possible, such as quitting smoking, using UV protection for the eyes, and eating a diet healthy in certain nutrients. Our macular degeneration specialists provide Melbourne patients and those from surrounding suburbs the opportunity to discuss ways that they can protect their macula from disease and reduce the risk of progression of existing disease.
Patients with the wet form may access intravitreal injections for macular degeneration. This treatment involves the injection of a medication into the eye that aims to block the formation of new abnormal blood vessels. Intravitreal injections for macular degeneration have shown promise in stabilising the state of the macula and in some cases have also provided some improvement to vision. As these injections will need to be repeated to maintain the macula, your retinal ophthalmologist will tailor the dosing schedule to your eyes in order to optimise the number of injections required to preserve your existing vision. This may mean an injection is required every four weeks, or for some people with more stable disease, may mean only every eight weeks.
The retinal team at Armadale Eye Clinic are committed to ensuring your feel safe and empowered to make well-informed decisions throughout your treatment. Any risks or potential side effects of recommended procedures are discussed in detail with you first.
Our Melbourne rooms are well equipped for accurately diagnosing and monitoring macular disease. We possess state-of-the-art technology including optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and retinal photography in order to provide you with optimal care.
Patients and concerned family members are invited to come under the care of our experienced retinal doctors at Armadale Eye Clinic. Organise your appointment today by calling or booking online.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
© Copyright – Armadale Eye Clinic 2019
OPENING HOURS:
Weekdays: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
CONTACT US:
Phone: (03) 9070 5753
FAX: 8692 1131
Email: info@armadale-eye.com.au
WHERE TO FIND US:
93 Kooyong Rd, Armadale,
Melbourne, VIC, 3143,
Australia