Macular Degeneration: How Early Screening Saves Sight

21/10/2025

The macula, the small central part of the retina, is responsible for sharp, detailed vision that lets us read, drive, and recognize faces. When it begins to deteriorate, the result is macular degeneration, one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50.

At Barraquer, early detection is at the heart of patient care. Using cutting-edge diagnostic tools, our specialists can identify the earliest signs of macular damage often before symptoms even appear, helping preserve vision and quality of life.

Understanding Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration (also known as age-related macular degeneration or AMD) occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula begin to break down. This leads to blurred or distorted central vision while peripheral vision usually remains intact.

There are two main types:

Dry AMD (atrophic): The more common and slower-developing form caused by thinning of macular tissue.
Wet AMD (neovascular): Less common but more severe, where abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, leading to rapid vision loss.

Why Early Screening Matters

By the time most patients notice vision changes, macular damage is often already advanced. That’s why early screening is crucial. It enables ophthalmologists to start interventions that slow progression and protect sight.

At Barraquer, screenings are recommended for:

Individuals over 50.
Patients with a family history of macular degeneration.
Smokers or those with hypertension, obesity, or prolonged sun exposure.
Anyone noticing difficulty reading, distorted lines, or faded colors.

Routine retinal exams can detect AMD before it affects daily life, allowing doctors to monitor, manage, and in many cases, prevent severe visual impairment.

Advanced Diagnostic Tools at Barraquer

Barraquer uses world-class diagnostic technologies to ensure accuracy and early detection:

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing specialists to detect even microscopic changes in macular tissue.
OCT Angiography (OCTA): Maps blood flow in the retina without the need for dye injections, ideal for identifying early signs of wet AMD.
Fundus Photography: Captures detailed images of the retina for long-term monitoring and comparison.
Fluorescein Angiography: When needed, this test helps identify leaking or abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina.

These tools allow Barraquer’s experts to personalize each patient’s care plan, ensuring timely and targeted management.

Treatment and Management Options

While there is no cure for macular degeneration, early detection means treatment can significantly slow its progression.

Nutritional and lifestyle guidance: Supplements containing antioxidants, zinc, and lutein can help protect retinal health in early stages.
Anti-VEGF injections: For wet AMD, these medications prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels and help stabilize vision.
Laser therapy: In select cases, targeted laser treatments seal leaking vessels.
Low-vision rehabilitation: For advanced cases, Barraquer provides guidance on adaptive tools and visual aids to enhance quality of life.

The key to success lies in timing interventions that are most effective when the disease is detected early.

Barraquer’s Preventive Approach

At Barraquer, prevention and precision go hand in hand. Every patient undergoes a detailed eye examination supported by advanced imaging, allowing our specialists to track even subtle retinal changes.

We encourage patients to schedule routine retinal check-ups, especially those over 50 or with risk factors. With Barraquer's expertise in macular imaging and clinical management, early intervention becomes the most powerful tool against vision loss.

Protecting Your Macula Every Day

Simple daily habits can also make a difference:

Wear UV-protection sunglasses outdoors to shield the retina from harmful rays.
Maintain a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids.
Quit smoking as it is one of the strongest risk factors for AMD.
Manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Schedule regular eye exams, even if vision feels normal.

Conclusion

Macular degeneration doesn't happen overnight, but its effects can be life-changing. The good news is that with early detection, many patients retain clear, functional vision for years.

At Barraquer, we combine the most advanced diagnostic imaging with compassionate, personalized care because protecting your sight begins long before symptoms appear.

Schedule a Consultation Today

For consultation, please contact us:

Email: appointments@barraquer.ae
Phone (Outside the UAE): +971 4 573 9999
Toll-Free (Within the UAE): 800 234823 (BEHUAE)
Availability: 7 days a week, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Extended hours on Monday until 8:00 PM

Our team will be pleased to assist you.