Dry Macula Degeneration, also known as Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD), is a chronic and progressive condition where the macula — the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision — slowly deteriorates over time.
Dry AMD accounts for 90% of all AMD cases.
It develops gradually, often over many years, and affects the ability to read, recognise faces, drive, and perform tasks requiring fine detail.
In Dry AMD, the retinal cells gradually thin, and drusen (tiny yellow deposits) accumulate under the retina, disrupting its normal function.
Although Dry AMD does not cause total blindness (because peripheral vision remains intact), it can significantly reduce central vision. A smaller percentage of patients progress from Dry AMD to Wet AMD, which can lead to rapid loss of sight if not treated promptly.
Symptoms usually develop slowly and may affect one or both eyes. Common signs include:
Blurred or hazy central vision
Difficulty reading small print, even with good lighting
Distortion of shapes or letters
Needing brighter light for close work
Reduced contrast sensitivity
Faded colours
A central smudge or grey patch
Difficulty recognising faces
Slow adaptation to low light (night-time vision decline)
In early stages, symptoms may be mild or barely noticeable.
As the condition progresses, central clarity becomes increasingly affected.
Dry AMD is caused by age-related changes in the macula, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing it:
The biggest risk factor. Most cases occur in people over 55.
Increasingly recognised as a strong contributor — especially variants in complement pathway genes.
Doubles the risk by damaging the retina and reducing oxygen supply.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and vascular disease affect macular health.
Low intake of leafy greens, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids increases risk.
Associated with faster progression.
Chronic UV light exposure may contribute to retinal ageing.
Women have a slightly higher risk.
Although the exact cause is multifactorial, Dry AMD represents a cumulative degeneration of retinal cells and supporting tissues.
Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical examination and retinal imaging:
Dilated retinal examination to assess drusen, pigmentation and macular thinning
OCT scan (Optical Coherence Tomography) — essential for monitoring progression and differentiating Dry from Wet AMD
Fundus photography to document structural changes
Amsler grid testing to detect distortion
OCT-Angiography (if needed) to rule out early Wet AMD
Regular monitoring is crucial, particularly in moderate or advanced stages.
You should book an eye examination if you notice:
Increasing difficulty reading despite new glasses
Distortion of straight lines
New central blur, smudge, or faded patch
Reduced colour brightness or contrast
Difficulty adapting between bright and dim environments
AMD in the family
Any sudden change in vision (requires same-day urgent assessment to exclude Wet AMD)
Patients with known Dry AMD should attend regular OCT monitoring to assess progression and detect conversion to Wet AMD early.
Steroidal intravitreal injections reduce inflammation and macular swelling caused by conditions such as CMO, diabetic macular oedema and uveitis. They provide rapid, effective and long-lasting improvement in vision when other treatments are insufficient.
Macula Hole / VMT Surgery is a precise retinal procedure that removes traction, closes macula holes, and restores central vision. With modern micro-incision techniques, the procedure offers excellent success rates and significant visual improvement for most patients.
Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections block abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce fluid in the retina. They are the leading treatment for Wet AMD, diabetic macular oedema and other retinal conditions, offering fast, effective protection of central vision.
Epiretinal membrane surgery removes scar tissue from the macula to reduce distortion and improve central vision. It is a safe, advanced retinal procedure with strong success rates and gradual, long-term visual improvement.
