Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Treatment
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a condition associated with aging that gradually destroys sharp, central vision. Central vision is needed for seeing objects clearly and for common daily tasks such as reading and driving. AMD affects the macula, the part of the eye that allows us to see fine details. It causes no pain.
In some cases, AMD advances so slowly that people notice little change in their vision. In others, AMD progresses faster and may lead to a loss of central vision in both eyes. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in humans 60 years of age and older.
AMD occurs in two forms: Wet and Dry. In the Wet form there is formation of new vessels that leak or bleed in the macular area causing distortion of vision. In the Dry form there is progressive atrophy of the retinal cells in the macular area.
How is AMD treated?
Wet AMD can be treated with laser surgery, photodynamic therapy, and injections in the eye. New drugs that are injected in the eye (anti-VEGF) are currently the mainstay of treatment. None of these treatments is a cure for wet AMD. Loss of vision may progress despite treatment.
Multiple injections may be needed. Usually the first 3 injections are given monthly then tailored according to each case thereafter. The eye is numbed before each injection. After the injection, you will remain in the doctor’s office for a while and the eye will be monitored. This injection treatment may help slowing down vision loss from AMD and in some cases improving sight.
The retinal OCT and Fluorescein Angiography are used to make the diagnosis and monitor response to treatment.
As for Dry AMD, treatment may delay and possibly prevent the progression to the advanced stage, in which vision loss occurs. Taking a specific high-dose formulation of Vitamins (antioxidants and zinc) significantly reduces this risk. Slowing AMD’s progression will save the vision of many people.