These are a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors which include:

• Family History
• Smoking (more than 5 years)
• Increasing Age
• Low Degree of Macular Pigment
• Macular Drusen (one or both eyes)
• Female Gender
• Caucasian Ethnicity
• Cardiovascular Disease (Systemic Hypertension, Diabetes and Cholesterol)
• Exposure to UV light (Pale Eye Colour, Fair Skin, Sunbathing, High Altitude Sports)
• Poor Diet (High % saturated Fats/Processed Foods, Overweight).

Mackie Opticians are the first Scottish optician to offer screening for AMD using the MPOD.  This test requires the patient to determine when lights flicker and measures macular pigment density, a controllable risk factor. Screening also includes a digital photo of the back of the eye and a risk analysis based on risk factors revealed and their combined significance. Patients will then receive an expert opinion on how to reduce their risk.  This may include macular pigment vitamin supplementation, increased consumption of specific food groups and lifestyle changes.

The original large scale study (AERDS) looking at this disease recommended Preservision tablets with I-Caps tablets being a similar copy.  However, we have discontinued these products as new research has revealed that other ingredients are required to provide a more beneficial effect at reducing or halting the progession of dry AMD. These vitamin supplements include Macusan and Nutrof Total as they not only contain vitamins but also the macular pigments Lutein and Zeaxanthin and fatty acid Omega 3.  In addition, Macusan contains Gingko Biloba to improve circulation.

All eye examinations are FREE, within specific time intervals, as funded by NHS Scotland. MPOD Screening Costs £20 for an initial visit and £10 for reviews; Digital Photography costs £10. For vitamin supplements we have introduced a three price structure:
a) Bulk Buy. Buy six packets of tablets, get one packet FREE (ie £16x6=£96, SAVE £32 per year) 
b) Set up a direct debit. This costs £14 per month (ie normal price £16 per month, SAVE £28 per year). Six months supply of tablets will be given at one time to avoid running out of date and just before your next 6 months batch is due we will contact you.  
c) Purchase individual boxes. This is the most expensive option and costs £16 per box.
Note: Vitamin Supplement can be collected at Mackie Opticians or sent in the post.

Mackie Opticians in partnership with NHS Lanarkshire can provide AMD patients with access to FREE low vision aids, as funded by the Scottish Government. 
These can be either special spectacles, magnifiers, lighting and electronic devices to provide vision for tasks patients cannot achieve with conventional spectacles such as watching TV, reading, viewing outside signs, seeing price labels, etc.

Contact your nearest practice to arrange an appointment to discuss AMD with Dr Mackie.  This may result in an eye examination and/or digital photography of the back of the eye and/or a MPOD measurement and risk evaluation and/or provision of magnifiers.

Q Who should be screened for AMD?
A Any patients over 40 years of age with any risk factors as previously outlined
Q How long does the MPOD test take and are there any restrictions?
A The test takes about 5 mins per eye and there are no restrictions except very poor vision preventing the patient viewing the flickering lights.
Q Will taking Macusan or Nutrof Total affect any other medication taken?
A No. However, we advise taking Nutrof Total for patients with anti-coagulent medication such as warfarin as it does not contain the anti-oxidant Gingko Biloba.
Q Can I get Macusan or Nutrof Total on prescription?
A No these are not available from the NHS.
Q Are there different concentrations of these drugs?
A Macusan Plus contains a higher level of lutein and is used for the first 3 months, followed by Macusan. There is no change required in concentration for Nutrof Total.
Q Are Macusan or Nutrof Total safe to use if I am a smoker?
A Yes, Macusan or Nutrof Total are safe as both do not contain vitamin A or beta-caroten. 
Q How long do I need to take Macusan or Nutrof Total?
A MPOD measurements will be repeated every 6 months until Macular Pigment Density level is normal for your age.  However, maintenance of this level is usually lifelong, similar to cholesterol or blood pressure medication.  Dr Mackie will advise you.
Q Is there anything else I can do?
A Eat a diet rich in fruit and green vegetables (eg broccoli, spinach) and oily fish (eg mackeral, tuna) Stop smoking as this is a significant risk factor, but can be drastically reduced after 5 years of non-smoking. Get a yearly eye examination.

This test should be performed using your reading spectacles or bifocals/varifocals held up so you are looking through the reading portion. Cover one eye, at a time and focus on  the central spot with the opened eye.  The surrounding pattern should NOT have wavy, broken or distorted lines or areas missing.  If this happens please make an appointment.