Is Macular Degeneration Curable?

Macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition that affects the retina. It is commonly called age-related macular degeneration because it is prevalent among older people.

 

AMD is a result of a damaged segment of the retina known as the macula. The macula allows you to recognize faces, watch TV, use a mobile phone, and do any other exhaustive optical tasks.

 

Your central vision will gradually diminish when you develop AMD. You will not be able to see fine details. Still, your side vision will remain intact.

 

So far, there is no cure for AMD. But several treatments are available to delay its progression and improve your overall vision.

 

Who Is at Greater Risk of Macular Degeneration?

Generally, AMD is associated with old age. It is prevalent among persons of age 50 and above. Other risk factors include:

 

• Gender (higher percentage in women than men)
   

• Heredity
   

• Smoking
   

• Heart disease
   

• Obesity
   

• High blood pressure
   

• Eating highly saturated fats
  
   

Types of Macular Degeneration

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet.

 

Dry AMD

It is the most common type among AMD patients. It accounts for 80 percent of all AMD cases. Dry AMD occurs when protein deposits (drusen) accumulate in the macula, affecting the functionality of the retinal cells. Dry AMD patients experience a slow, pain-free loss of central vision.

 

Wet AMD

While this type is less common, it is more vision-threatening. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels seep out blood or fluids, resulting in the discoloration of the macula. Wet AMD patients lose vision quicker in contrast to their dry AMD counterparts.

 

Treatments for AMD

The treatments for AMD include:

 

Anti-VEGF Drugs

Avastin, Eylea, and Lucentis are the three major anti-VEGF medications. They are used to treat wet AMD or other conditions affecting the retina. Your ophthalmologist will numb your eye to reduce pain and then use a microscopic needle to inject the drug. The injection happens in seconds.

 

These medications impede the growth of abnormal blood vessels and subsequent leaking and discoloration of the macula. Patients who adhere to these drugs enjoy restored vision.

 

Laser Therapy

The use of laser light and heat stunts the growth and development of abnormal blood vessels in your eye. This prevents them from further growth and subsequent leaking.

 

Low Vision Aids

They are equipped with electronic systems and special lenses to magnify images of close-by objects. Patients who’ve suffered vision loss from AMD can benefit immensely from such help.

 

Photodynamic Laser Therapy

For this procedure, your ophthalmologist will inject a light-sensitive medication called verteporfin into your bloodstream, where the abnormal blood vessels will absorb it. The injected drug wipes out the leaky abnormal blood vessels by pointing a laser inside your eye.

 

Visit an Eye Doctor Today

If you notice rapid or slow deterioration in your central vision, schedule an appointment with Eye Care Center to rule out AMD as the cause. Our team of doctors and staff can guarantee a personalized patient experience through the use of state-of-the-art testing and diagnostic equipment.



To learn more about macular degeneration, visit or call Eye Care Centers at any of our offices in Fridley (763) 308-8440, Maple Grove (763) 420-6981, and Maplewood, Minnesota (651) 777-3555, anytime from Monday to Friday.