Your macula is located at the back of the eye and is responsible for your central vision. The term ‘macula’, however, is colloquially interchanged with Macular Degeneration, a disease process that occurs in people above the age of 60 which permanently damages the central vision.
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) can be described as ‘Dry’ or ‘Wet’. Dry AMD can slowly affect the central vision over many years. A healthy diet of fish and vegetables, and avoiding smoking can slow the progress of Dry AMD. Wet AMD is a serious condition that can permanently damage the central vision over a matter of days. Urgent treatment with intravitreal injections is required to save the central vision. It is important to see a Retinal Specialist who specialises in macular pathology to ensure the best outcome and a comfortable experience.
Other common problems that can affect the macula include Diabetic Macular Oedema, Macular Holes and Epiretinal Membranes (scar tissue). Macular holes occur when the jelly within your eye shrinks and pulls on the central part of the retina. Semi-urgent surgery is required to save vision. Epiretinal membranes are common and slowly cause distortion and blur. Sometimes surgical removal of the scar can improve vision. Diabetic macular oedema is common in people with diabetes and can be treated effectively with injections.
The Sunshine Coast is expanding in both population size and in access to highly trained medical specialists, providing the same level of expert eye care available in capital cities around Australia. At Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina, an Ophthalmologist who specialises in macular disease will be able to assess you using the latest imaging technology to create a tailored management plan to optimise your sight.
Dr Warren Apel is an Ophthalmologist and Retinal Specialist at Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina who specialises in macular disease. Dr Apel has undertaken additional training in retinal and macular disease through fellowships at prestigious teaching hospitals in London, Cheltenham and Oxford in the United Kingdom. Dr Apel also consults in the Inherited Retinal Disease clinic at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane.
Dr Apel is accepting referrals for new and existing patients at Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina in Noosa and Caloundra. To make an appointment please call reception on (07) 5491 9496.
