Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Treatment

Overview

In Singapore, the overall life expectancy continues to increase and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has become a major public-health concern. Although the specific cause is unknown, AMD seems to be part of ageing.
AMD is a disease affecting the elderly that gradually destroys the macula resulting in loss of sharp, central vision. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, similar to that of a film in a camera. The retina is made up of many cells, called photoreceptors. Images are captured by these photoreceptors on this retina or ‘film’.

AMD-image-screening

In Singapore, the overall life expectancy continues to increase and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has become a major public-health concern. Although the specific cause is unknown, AMD seems to be part of ageing.

AMD is a disease affecting the elderly that gradually destroys the macula resulting in loss of sharp, central vision. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, similar to that of a film in a camera. The retina is made up of many cells, called photoreceptors. Images are captured by these photoreceptors on this retina or ‘film’.

They are converted to nerve signals and sent to the brain to be viewed as pictures. The centre of this retina is called the macula. It enables us to see fine detail and differentiate colour. It also enables us in our daily detailed activities like reading, writing and driving.

old-guy-reading-with-glasses

Reducing AMD Risks


Targeting the modifiable risk factors by changing our lifestyle.
This includes:

  • A Healthy diet of oily fish, green, leafy vegetables and reduced fats
  • Taking medications to control high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels
  • Stop smoking
  • Exercise to reduce weight
  • Wear sunglasses to decrease sunlight exposure
healthy-lifestyle

What You Need To Know


Symptoms of Macular Degeneration Include:

  • Blur vision
  • Central loss of vision (scotoma) or areas of black patches/ shadows
  • Distortion of vision or metamorphopsia (where a straight line appears wavy – This may be tested using the Amsler Grid)

The Amsler Grid Test is used to monitor the macula. This consists of a large square with multiple small, regular squares.

Test Yourself

What can be done when I already have poor vision from advanced AMD?

Fortunately, macular degeneration does not lead to total blindness and usually, only the central vision is affected. Even in advanced cases, the peripheral vision is still very well preserved, allowing for ‘navigational’ vision.

There are many low vision aids that may help. These consist mainly of magnifiers, both for near and distance visions. They range from simple desktop glass magnifiers or telescopes to more sophisticated ones like computer screen readers.

Types of AMD

What can Eagle Eye Centre offer?

At Eagle Eye Centre, we will first perform a comprehensive ocular examination which includes a visual acuity test, observations through the slit lamp and a dilated fundal examination. Based on your assessment, we can then offer a proper diagnosis and will devise a personalised treatment for your condition.

With the latest imaging techniques including FFA, ICG and state of the art spectral domain OCT, we are highly equipped to offer an accurate diagnosis of various possible conditions. We are also able to perform laser from the latest PASCAL laser and have various intravitreal injection options between conventional and new anti-VEGF agents and anti-VEGF traps.

As part of the comprehensive quality care we provide, we also offer counselling with regards to diet and lifestyle modifications to help reduce your risk of AMD.

EEC also provides a wide range of low vision aids help overcome various visual inconveniences.

Locate us

Mt Alvernia

820 Thomson Road,
Mount Alvernia Hospital,
Medical Centre D, #06-57/58/59/60/61/62
Singapore 574623

Fax: (65) 6456 1006
Mt Elizabeth Orchard

Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
3 Mount Elizabeth #08-08,
Singapore 228510

Fax: (65) 6836 0002
Parkway East

Parkway East Medical Centre,
319 Joo Chiat Place,
#05-03 Singapore 427989

Fax: (65) 6348-1001
Mt Elizabeth Novena

38 Irawaddy Road,
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre,
#08-22/23/24 Singapore 329563

Fax: (65) 6570 1001
Westgate

Westgate Mall,
3 Gateway Drive,
#02-42A Singapore 608532

Fax: (65) 6250-6066
Royal Square at Novena

Royal Square Novena Medical Centre at Royal Square at Novena,
101 Irrawaddy Road,
#11-07 to 13 Singapore 329565

Fax: (65) 6456-1002
King Albert Park

KAP Residences Mall,
9 King Albert Park,
#01-42/43/44 Singapore 598332

Fax: (65) 6475-1880
StarMed Specialist Centre

12 Farrer Park Station Road,
#05-02/03/04,
StarMed Specialist Centre, Singapore 217565


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