Macula

The macula is a small, round area measuring approximately 5 millimetres in the centre of your retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye, and the macula is the most sensitive part of it. The name ‘macula lutea’ literally means ‘yellow spot’, and this yellow colour is due to a high concentration of the pigments lutein and zeaxanthin.

At the centre of the macula lies the fovea, an even smaller depression measuring approximately 1.5 millimetres. This is where most of the cones are located – the photoreceptors responsible for colour vision and sharp vision in daylight. Thanks to this high density of cones, the macula is the area where your vision is sharpest.

The macula is responsible for your central field of vision. Everything you see directly in front of you, whatever you’re focusing on, is processed by the macula. This makes the macula essential for activities such as reading, driving, recognising faces, fine motor skills and perceiving details and colours.

The area surrounding the macula – the periphery of the retina – is responsible for your peripheral vision. This area mainly contains rods, which are more sensitive to movement and low light, but produce a less sharp image.

Why the macula is vulnerable

Because the macula has such a high metabolic rate and is constantly processing light, this area is susceptible to wear and tear and damage. Macular conditions can affect your central vision, whilst your peripheral vision often remains intact. This means, for example, that you may still notice movement but can no longer see details.

Common macular disorders

Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a common condition in which the macula gradually deteriorates. It mainly affects people over the age of 60. Another example is macular oedema, in which fluid accumulates in the macula, causing blurred vision.

Signs of macular problems

Changes in your central vision, such as blurred vision, distorted lines, a dark spot in the centre of your field of vision or difficulty reading, may indicate a problem with the macula. If you have any of these symptoms, please have them assessed by your optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist.

The macula and contact lenses

Contact lenses do not directly affect the macula, but a well-fitting lens does ensure clear vision, which allows the macula to function optimally. If you have macular problems, your ophthalmologist or optician can advise you on aids or adjustments to your prescription.