Our eyes are one of the most metabolically active parts of our body.

The macula is the area of the retina responsible for central vision and is the most active area of the eye. The specialised cells of the macula are called cones and allow us to see colour and fine detail, such as the written word and facial features.

As we age, the cells in our body can become less efficient and the waste products of these cells are not always cleared away completely.

This process of ageing is also known as oxidative damage and may be accelerated by smoking, drinking, eating toxic foods and other forms of physical, mental and emotional stress.

The waste products of the macular cells can accumulate beneath the cells and may be seen by the doctor as yellow deposits called drusen. Over time, this process may cause the overlying cells to atrophy, resulting in atrophic or dry macular degeneration .

Less commonly, the drusen may lead to breaks in the structures beneath the macula, allowing new blood vessels to grow in. These blood vessels may leak or bleed. This process is known as exudative or wet macular degeneration.

Dry macular degeneration usually develops quietly and slowly, over years to decades. There is no known treatment, but the process may be prevented or slowed with the use of anti-oxidants . These include the water soluble vitamins A, C and E. Lutein and zeaxanthin and astaxanthin may also be of help, as may trace elements and minerals such as selenium and zinc. There may be an inflammatory element of this condition and anti-inflammatory agents such as bilberry may be of assistance in some people.

Wet macular degeneration can develop quite quickly and dramatically. Prevention with anti-oxidants is important. Treatment is now available if the process is detected in the early stages. This is why regular eye examinations are important as we age, so that we know if we are at risk of this condition and so that we know what to seek help for. Symptoms include blurring or distortion of the central vision, particularly for reading and seeing faces.

Specialised tests are available to detect the condition in its early stages.

Treatment is directed at causing the new blood vessels to shut down and regress and may include laser and injections into the eye.

Doctor will discuss specific details of investigations and treatment with you if they are relevant to your eye health. Please ask if you have any further questions.