Caring For Your Eyes
Wet macular degeneration is a serious eye problem that many people, especially older adults, face. This condition occurs when new blood vessels grow under the retina. These blood vessels can leak fluid, leading to vision loss. However, there are treatments available to help manage this condition.
Treatments for Wet Macular Degeneration
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy is one way to treat wet macular degeneration. In this method, a special medicine called verteporfin is injected into a vein in your arm. This medicine travels to the problem blood vessels in your eye. After the injection, a special light shines on your eye, activating the drug.
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The light causes the medicine to destroy the unwanted blood vessels without harming the surrounding tissue. While not as common as other treatments, PDT can be helpful, especially when used with other options.
Anti-VEGF Injections
Anti-VEGF injections are a common treatment for wet macular degeneration. VEGF stands for vascular endothelial growth factor, which encourages the growth of new blood vessels. Anti-VEGF medicines work by blocking this protein, helping to stop new blood vessel growth and reducing leaking. These injections are usually given every month or a few months, based on your doctor’s advice. Some common anti-VEGF medications include:
- Aflibercept (Eylea).
- Ranibizumab (Lucentis).
- Bevacizumab (Avastin).
Most people see some improvement in their vision after starting these injections.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a traditional way to treat wet macular degeneration. In this procedure, a strong laser is used to target and destroy the abnormal blood vessels. The laser creates a focused beam of light that only affects the leaking vessels. While laser therapy can help prevent more vision loss, it is not very effective at restoring lost vision. This treatment is usually reserved for specific cases of wet macular degeneration.
Lifestyle Changes
You can make some lifestyle changes to help manage wet macular degeneration. Here are a few tips:
- Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses that block UV rays when you’re outside to shield your eyes from sun damage.
- Eat a healthy diet: Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Foods like leafy greens, fish and nuts are especially good for eye health.
- Exercise regularly: Being active can improve your overall health and may help reduce the risk of eye diseases.
- Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting can lower your risk of developing macular degeneration.
Vision Rehabilitation
If you lose some vision due to wet macular degeneration, vision rehabilitation can help you adapt. This includes:
- Low vision aids: Special devices like magnifying glasses or improved lighting can help you see better.
- Training: Specialists can teach you new techniques for daily tasks to make the most of your remaining vision.
Nutritional Supplements
While supplements can’t cure wet macular degeneration, they can support eye health and may slow down the disease's progress. Some vitamins and minerals that may help include:
- Vitamin C.
- Vitamin E.
- Zinc.
- Copper.
- Lutein.
- Zeaxanthin.
Before starting any supplements, be sure to talk to your doctor about what is best for you.
Wet Macular Degeneration Management
Wet macular degeneration can be a difficult condition, but there are many ways to manage it. If you notice any changes in your vision, see an eye doctor as soon as possible. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can protect your vision and maintain a good quality of life. Always follow your doctor's advice and stay proactive about your eye health!
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