All About AMD- Part 2- Treatment

AMD Impacts Quality of Vision

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that impacts a person’s ability to see clearly. Though scientists have not yet found a way to reverse AMD, they have developed treatments that may help to slow the progression.  People with AMD can learn to maximize the vision that they do have.

Treatment Options

“Although doctors are not yet able to reverse the damage caused by age-related macular degeneration,” says Dr. Niki Silverstein, “there are ways that they can help patients to preserve their vision.  Through proper treatment they can work to slow the progression and more effectively manage the condition.”

With routine eye exams doctors are able to detect AMD in its earlier stages.  This allows them to begin treatment sooner and possibly preserve more of the patient’s vision.  It is essential for people to seek medical treatment as soon as they notice changes in their eyesight.

For people with dry AMD, making changes to their diet and lifestyle can help to preserve their vision.  Some simple changes that they can make include:

·        Quitting or avoiding smoking

·        Engaging in regular exercise

·        Eating foods rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids

·        Maintaining a healthy weight

Treatment for wet AMD is geared toward stopping the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula.  One treatment method is the use of intraocular injections.  They are approved by the FDA and are injected monthly into the vitreous of the eye.  They often include anti-VEGF medicines to block the protein known as vascular endothelial growth factor.  Doctors believe that this is what stimulates the growth of these blood vessels.  By administering medication that slows the growth, they can help to slow vision loss.

Another potential option is photodynamic therapy.  This treatment uses a light-sensitive medicine to gather abnormal blood vessels.  A laser is then used to activate the medicine and block the blood vessels.  This can help to slow the leakage of fluid which can in turn slow the progression of central vision loss.

Some doctors also recommend increasing the consumption of vitamins and minerals to help preserve eyesight.  This can also help to clear away toxic substances.

For people with vision loss, lifestyle changes can help them to make the most of the eyesight that they do have.  They learn to adapt and adjust the way that they complete various activities.  Instead of relying on their central vision, they learn how to maximize the use of side vision.  Techniques vary depending on the amount of vision loss that they have and how it impacts their life.

Researchers are continually looking for new ways to help prevent and treat age-related macular degeneration.  Getting regular eye exams can help people to identify problems early on and receive the most beneficial treatment to preserve their vision.  Their doctor can work with them to determine the most effective course of treatment.

ABOUT:

Dr. Silverstein is a board-certified ophthalmologist who strives to stay on top of the latest advancements in the field.  She has a wealth of experience treating cataracts and not only worked with the inventor of modern cataract surgery for two years, but has developed her own techniques as well.  Dr. Niki Silverstein believes in giving patients personal attention and providing them with the most effective treatment and care.