Age-related macular degeneration—or AMD—is a common eye condition that affects your central vision. For those with the “dry” form of AMD, treatment options have often focused on monitoring and support. Until recently, management strategies were largely preventive. Now, however, a non-invasive treatment called MacuMira is available to help manage dry AMD.
MacuMira is Canada’s first—and to date only—Health Canada–approved treatment designed to improve visual function for people with dry AMD. MacuMira is a non-invasive therapy that uses a gentle microcurrent to support the health of the cells affected by dry AMD. If you or a loved one is exploring ways to care for your vision, here’s what you should know .
A Simple Look at Dry AMD & Its Effects
Dry AMD is a condition that affects the macula—the part of your retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision. Over time, AMD can make it more difficult to read, drive, or recognize faces.
How Dry AMD Affects Your Vision
This condition causes a gradual breakdown of light-sensitive cells in the macula. This can lead to blurry or distorted central vision. Your peripheral—or side—vision usually remains clear.
Common Signs to Watch For
You might notice changes in your vision, such as:
- Blurry spots in your central field of vision
- Straight lines that appear wavy or crooked
- Difficulty with tasks that require fine detail
- A need for brighter light when reading
Traditional Approaches for Dry Macular Degeneration
Traditionally, managing dry AMD has involved proactive steps to support overall eye health and maintain vision.
Lifestyle & Nutritional Support
Your optometrist might recommend specific nutritional supplements based on the AREDS2 formula. Other supportive measures include eating a healthy diet rich in foods that support eye health and protecting your eyes from UV light with sunglasses. It’s also important to avoid smoking.
The Search for New Treatment Methods
For many years, the primary approach for dry AMD was “watchful waiting.” While these strategies remain important, they do not actively improve visual function. Ongoing research has led to new technologies aimed at actively treating the condition—like MacuMira.
An Introduction to the MacuMira Treatment
MacuMira is a therapy developed for people with dry AMD. It’s a non-invasive procedure, which means it doesn’t involve injections or surgery. It is the first and only clinically proven dry AMD treatment approved by Health Canada. MacuMira offers a new way to address dry AMD beyond diet and supplements.
How the MacuMira System Functions
The treatment uses a gentle microcurrent stimulation delivered to the eyes to help improve retinal function. This stimulation supports cellular activity in the macula and has been shown in clinical results to improve visual clarity in as little as 10 days for some patients.
A Non-Invasive & Gentle Procedure
The procedure is performed right in your optometrist’s office. It requires no downtime, so you can return to your daily activities immediately after a session. Many people find the treatment to be comfortable.
The MacuMira Process & What to Expect
Your journey with MacuMira begins with a thorough assessment to determine if it’s the right fit for you.
Your First Consultation
You’ll start with a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist in Woodstock. This includes specific tests to evaluate the health of your macula. It also helps confirm your stage of dry AMD.
What Happens During a Treatment Session
During a session, the MacuMira device will deliver a low-level electrical current to your eyes. Each session is 30-40 minutes long. A typical treatment plan involves a series of 4 treatments to be completed within 10 days and then a maintenance treatment every 2-3 months.
How Effective Is MacuMira Treatment?
The aim of MacuMira is to help stabilize or improve vision in people with dry AMD. Patient results can vary, but the therapy is designed to help improve retinal function. Your optometrist can discuss what outcomes you might anticipate based on your situation.
Could You Be a Candidate for MacuMira?
MacuMira is not for everyone with AMD. It is specifically designed for those with the dry form of AMD. Typically, it’s used for people in the early to intermediate stages of the condition.
A Conversation with Your Eye Doctor
The only way to know for sure if MacuMira is right for you is to have a detailed conversation with your eye care professional, who can assess your eye health and help you understand your options for care.
While there’s no cure for AMD, you can take steps to manage the condition and protect your vision. Through a combination of lifestyle choices, nutritional support, and modern treatments like MacuMira, it’s possible to influence the progression of dry AMD.
Consistent, comprehensive eye exams are the foundation of good AMD management. At Oxford Optometry, we’re committed to providing you with personalized care and access to modern technologies. If you have questions about dry AMD or MacuMira, book an appointment with our team to discuss your vision health with our team.
We’re here to help you feel seen, heard, and understood.
