Macular Degeneration Screening

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of sight loss in the UK, affecting more than 600,000 people. It damages the macula — the tiny area at the centre of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed central vision. AMD does not cause total blindness, but it can make everyday tasks such as reading, recognising faces, and driving extremely difficult. There are two forms: dry AMD (the more common, slower-progressing type) and wet AMD (less common but more rapidly damaging, requiring urgent treatment).

A macular degeneration screening goes beyond a routine eye test to focus specifically on the health of the macula. Your optometrist will use a combination of techniques including an Amsler grid test (to check for distortion in your central vision), a thorough retinal examination (ideally with dilated pupils), OCT scanning to visualise the layers of the macula in cross-section, and retinal photography to create a baseline record. OCT scanning is particularly valuable as it can detect fluid or structural changes in the macula before symptoms become noticeable.

If you are over 50, smoke or have smoked, have a family history of AMD, or have noticed any distortion or missing patches in your central vision, screening is strongly recommended. While there is currently no treatment for dry AMD (other than nutritional supplements that may slow progression), wet AMD can be treated very effectively with anti-VEGF injections — but only if it is caught early. The Amsler grid is a simple home monitoring tool that your optometrist can provide, allowing you to check for changes between appointments.