Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of sight loss in people over 50. It affects the macula, the small central area of the retina that lets you read, drive and recognise faces. Justine holds a certificate in Medical Retina, a qualification focused on conditions affecting the back of the eye, and also works part time in hospital practice. At her private clinic, every appointment is unhurried and carried out by Justine herself, so you benefit from expert eyes and consistent care each time.
There are two main types of AMD. Dry AMD is more common and develops gradually, as small yellow deposits called drusen build up and the macula slowly thins. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula and can cause rapid changes to vision.
AMD affects central vision only, so it does not cause complete blindness. Your risk increases with age and is higher if you smoke, have a family history of the condition or are of white European descent. Regular monitoring helps catch changes early.
Monitoring focuses on spotting change as early as possible. Justine checks your central vision and examines the macula in detail, with dilation if required. A 3D OCT scan captures cross-sectional images of the retinal layers, revealing fluid, deposits or thinning that may not be visible otherwise.
Optomap imaging records a wide view of the whole retina. Because scans are stored and compared at every visit, even subtle changes can be detected. The tests are painless and non-invasive, and Justine explains your results clearly before you leave.
There is currently no cure for AMD, but there are steps that can help. Not smoking reduces your risk, and a diet rich in leafy greens such as kale and broccoli may slow progression. Wet AMD can often be treated with anti-VEGF injections, which work best when started early.
If Justine detects signs of wet AMD, she will refer you urgently to an ophthalmologist. Between visits, contact Justine promptly if straight lines look wavy or you notice new blurring or a dark patch in your central vision.
Justine Proctor Optometrist is a private practice and does not offer NHS appointments. Whether you have been diagnosed with AMD, have a family history of the condition or simply want peace of mind, Justine will recommend a monitoring schedule that suits your needs. If you notice a sudden change in your central vision, call as soon as possible, because emergency appointments are also available. Ready to take the next step? Request an appointment online or call Justine on 07701281081.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition affecting the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. It is the most common cause of sight loss in people over 50 and can make reading, driving and recognising faces more difficult.
Dry AMD is more common and develops gradually as deposits called drusen build up and the macula thins. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula. It is less common but can cause rapid changes to vision and needs prompt treatment.
Early signs include blurred central vision, straight lines appearing wavy or distorted, and dark or empty patches in the centre of your vision. Early AMD may cause no symptoms at all, which is why regular OCT monitoring is so valuable.
AMD affects central vision only, so it does not cause complete blindness. Side vision is preserved, although losing central vision can make everyday tasks harder. Early detection and, for wet AMD, prompt treatment give the best chance of protecting your sight.
There is currently no cure for AMD. Wet AMD can often be treated with anti-VEGF injections, which work best when started early, so Justine will refer you urgently if she detects it. Not smoking and eating leafy greens may help reduce risk and slow progression.
