First published 14th February 2025
Updated: 11th February 2026

Macula degeneration is an eye condition which affects the centre at the back of our eye (the macula).

The types are classified as dry or wet.

Dry ~ causes gradual changes in vision.

This is due to lipid deposits coming through from the blood supply of the eye. (The blood supply is the choroid).

Wet ~ causes sudden changes in vision. This is due to fluid leaking and new blood vessels forming in between the layers around the macula. (The leaking fluid is known as sub-retinal fluid).

Dry (age-related) macula degeneration is the most common type affecting the majority globally. It is normally detected in individuals from the age 70 onwards. There are no symptoms on early signs, but once identified, the Optometrist will discuss findings and will advise on lifestyle changes particularly on keeping fit and nutrition. Eating fruits and vegetables rich in colour contains carotenoids which are beneficial for our eyes as well as our whole body. 

Carotenoids are pigments in fruits, vegetables and plants which act as antioxidants that attack free radicals to protect our cells. Supplements containing Lutein (an antioxidant) may be recommended.

As this condition progresses, clarity in vision reduces, driving becomes more difficult and the ability to focus on fine detailed tasks is arduous. However, peripheral vision remains intact.

Other changes that may be discussed include increasing lighting levels, adjusting room layout at home such as, moving the arm chair nearer to the tv in the living room for increased magnification.

The right balance of light in the home will aid vision and Blue filter tint (or a shade to your preference) applied to your spectacles will enhance contrast.

For specific tasks such as reading, an angle poised lamp can be used to direct the light on to the task.

Using LED lights in the kitchen and bathroom may be discussed as well being recommended Bump on stickers on appliances and furniture handles.

There are no treatments currently however light therapy has become recently available to treat the condition which has proven to give promising outcomes.

Since 2018, drug trials with 2 injections called Syfovre and Izervay (aao.org) have been undertaken with the aim of slowing down the end stage of the condition. The drug is injected directly into the eye either once a month or every 2 months. The aim of the treatment is to slow down further damage to the macula cells.

Gene therapy treatment is currently being developed. This entails ‘a carrier’ being injected to deliver genetic material to the retinal tissue. It should only require one treatment. No outcome has yet been reported.

Regular eye examination will ensure early detection.

Click here to read about ‘The Eye Exam’.

Wet macula degeneration will change your vision instantly and needs to be treated almost immediately.

The symptoms include: 

~distortion 

~blurring of vision, 

~tendency to shut or occlude the affected eye with near vision  

~‘blind spot’ in vision. 

If anyone experiences these symptoms, the Optometrist will refer urgently for treatment.

Treatment for this condition is a course of injections over a period of time to prevent new vessel formation and to ‘dry out’ the fluid around the macula.

Fortunately in the majority of people there will be significant visual improvement and in some cases, vision may be fully restored.

With the success of the treatments, hospital appointments are at a longer time interval. Digital self monitoring concept is currently being investigated – no outcome has yet been reported.

If you have any questions please get in touch.