Age Related Macular Degeneration
Age Related Macular Degeneration is a degeneration eye disease that causes damage to the macula, the central part of the retina at the back of the eye that allows us to see fine details clearly.
AMD can cause central vision loss.
People suffering from AMD may have problem in reading, driving and performing activities that require clear central vision.
AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in our senior population.
Stages of Age related Macular Degeneration
Dry Stage
It is the more common form. In this type the delicate tissues of the macula become thinned and slowly lose function over a period of years and decades.
The Wet Stage
It is the less common but more damaging. It is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels behind the macula. These abnormal blood vessels tend to leak fluid and results in formation of scar tissue if left untreated.
It causes progressive loss of central sight. Peripheral vision is unaffected.
Symptoms
- Blurry vision
- Distorted vision
- Difficulty is reading
- Straight lines appear wavy
- Central vision loss (appears to be dark empty area)
Treatment for DRY ARMD
Supplementation with specific anti-oxidant vitamins and minerals will significantly slow down the progression of the dry AMD
Wet Macular Degeneration
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors are the primary treatment for wet macular degeneration. These drugs inhibit the growth and leakage of the blood vessels and are the first treatment for wet macular degeneration.
VEGF inhibitors are delivered through tiny injections in the eye periodically.
Other treatments include laser treatments and photodynamic therapy. These treatments helps to seal the leaking blood vessels, halting the damage they can inflict upon the retina.
Intravitreal Injections
Intravitreal injections are given in vitreous jelly of the eye to reduce diabetic macular edema. Newer Anti-VEGF injection (Avastin, Accentrix, Pagenax) are also being used now with lesser Side-effects and promising results.
The injection procedure itself takes seconds and it usually feels like a tiny prick. You can go home later on the same day.