Macular Degeneration Care at ReFocus Eye Health Manchester

We dilate your eyes to see the retina and macula clearly, looking for signs of damage, drusen (small yellow deposits), pigment changes, or abnormal blood vessels.

This simple eye chart test measures how clearly you see at different distances and helps track changes over time.

You look at a grid of straight lines to check for distortion or gaps in your central vision. We may give you a grid for home monitoring between visits. While it can help detect distortions, it may not pick up all types of changes, especially gradual vision loss or peripheral vision loss.

OCT is a painless, high-tech imaging test that creates detailed pictures of the retina layers. It helps us see fluid, blood vessel changes, or thinning that might not be visible during a regular exam.

If wet AMD is suspected, we may inject a special dye into your arm and take photos as it flows through your retina. This test helps us see where abnormal blood vessels are leaking.

Devices like magnifiers, large-print items, task lighting, and electronic aids can help with reading, cooking, and hobbies.

Rehabilitation teaches you practical strategies to manage daily tasks safely and confidently, even with central vision loss.

Simple changes like better lighting, reduced clutter, marked steps, and large-button appliances can make your home safer and easier to navigate.

We provide honest advice about driving and other activities. We help you understand the rules and find alternatives if needed.

We use state-of-the-art OCT and other imaging tools to see detailed changes in your retina and monitor your condition closely.

All treatments, including injections and laser therapy, are performed right in our office for your comfort and convenience.

Our retina specialists, optometrists, and support staff work together to give you seamless, coordinated care.

We provide clear explanations, written materials, and hands-on training so you understand your condition and know how to monitor your vision.

There is currently no cure for macular degeneration. Treatments can slow progression and help maintain your current vision, especially if started early.

AMD usually only affects central vision. Most people never lose all vision and can stay independent with support, devices, and adaptations.

Injections are usually given monthly for three months at first, then less often based on how well you respond. The schedule is personalized for each patient.

Most people feel little to no pain because we use numbing drops to keep you comfortable during the process.

Yes, both eyes can develop AMD, but often one eye is affected first. If you have it in one eye, the other eye is at higher risk.

Call us immediately if you notice new distortion, blur, or blind spots. Quick evaluation is important to save vision.

AREDS2 vitamins are proven to reduce the risk of progression by about 25% in people with intermediate or advanced dry AMD, but not in early AMD.

No, these vitamins do not cure AMD or restore lost vision. They may help slow progression for some patients.

People with intermediate AMD in one or both eyes, or late AMD in one eye, may benefit after discussing with their eye doctor.

Anti-VEGF injections usually control wet AMD for 4–8 weeks, and you need ongoing monitoring and possible more injections. AREDS2 vitamins need to be taken every day.

Quitting smoking, eating healthy, staying active, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol may reduce risk and slow worsening of AMD.

No, normal activities like reading or screen use do not cause or worsen AMD. Good lighting and magnification can help you continue these activities.

If you have AMD, your close relatives should have regular dilated eye exams, even if they have no symptoms, because family history increases risk.

Routine genetic testing is not recommended for managing AMD, but research is ongoing to see if it may help in the future.

Dry AMD usually progresses slowly over years. Wet AMD can cause fast vision loss if not treated, but early care can often save sight.

High-powered reading glasses, magnifiers, electronic devices, special lighting, and adaptive software can all help people with AMD stay independent.

Yes, support groups and vision rehabilitation services can provide practical help and emotional support as you adjust to vision changes.

This depends on your vision. We assess your vision for legal driving requirements and help you make safe decisions.

You will have regular exams and imaging tests. How often depends on your AMD stage and whether you need treatment.

Scientists are studying new medicines, gene therapy, stem cell treatments, and advanced imaging to improve diagnosis and treatment in the future.

Your eye doctor and reliable national eye health organizations provide up-to-date information on AMD and living well with vision changes.