What is the Macula?

Posted on 29th Sep 201916th May 2021 by One Vision

Detailed picture on clipboard of the eye and the location of the Macul

The macula is in the central part of the retina at the back of the eyes.

It is oval in shape and approximately 5.5mm.

It has a very high concentration of photoreceptor cells that detect light and send signals to the brain, which interprets them as images. The rest of the retina processes our peripheral (side) vision.

It gives us the ability to see ’20/20′ vision, fine, straight ahead clear detail and the lovely vibrant colours that we see.

The macula in the human eye is the place where light is focused by the structures in the front of the eye (cornea & lens). It takes the picture that is sent to the brain, where vision is completed.

Of all the different parts of the eye, the macula is where images are created before being sent along the optic nerve to the brain, where vision is completed. The structure of the macula needs to be undisturbed and relatively dry in order for the images to be clear and vision to be good.

Macular disease causes loss of central vision.

How did they test me for Macular Dystrophy?

Posted on 28th Sep 201916th May 2021 by One Vision

Well, there are tests, at my first appointment with the consultant.

⚫ I had the ‘normal’ eye test first. This was with distance glasses on reading an eye chart. They can also help you with pinhole glasses, (I’ve write about these before). I didn’t need the help with these until the last time I have gone for one at the hospital.

⚫ Then, I had the puffer pressure test that you may have had in the usual opticians.

⚫ A visual field test. Which I have described in other posts.

After this, you have some drops popped into your eyes to dilate them, ready for the consultant to be able to look into your eyes easier.

Then, in with your consultant. You will have your eyes looked at through a magnifer. Usually with a prism and a bright light.

They will look through everything, but the main thing is the consultant looking ‘in’ your eyes.

This is where she told me very quickly that there was signs of Macular Dystrophy there and unfortunately that was what I was being diagnosed with. Along with small, both eye, (ped) Pigment epithelial detachment.