Macular Degeneration (MD) is a progressive eye condition that is quite common around the world.
It is usually an age-related eye condition and can lead to the loss of one’s central vision.
There are mainly two types of Macular Degeneration – wet and dry, among which dry Macular Degeneration is the more common.
Since it can hinder one’s vision, it is natural to wonder about Macular Degeneration Treatment.
People may opt for lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, and medicinal and surgical treatments.
This article will discuss the above-mentioned treatments for Macular Degeneration in detail.
Macular Degeneration Treatment Options
The treatment of Macular Degeneration depends on its type and severity.
While some people prefer adopting lifestyle modifications like quitting smoking and drinking, others may use nutritional supplements.
Doctors may also suggest medicines and surgery to slow down the progression of this condition.
Let us discuss these treatments of Macular Degeneration in detail.
Lifestyle Modifications
Source: stock_colors_from_Getty_ImagesAccording to research, smoking and drinking are two of the major risk factors for Macular Degeneration.
Hence, reducing or quitting smoking and alcohol consumption can help in slowing down the progress of MD.
Since sunlight exposure can also cause Macular Degeneration, wearing sunglasses can act as a preventive measure.
Another research shows that keeping a check on one’s high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels can also lower the risk or reduce the progression of MD.
Performing regular exercises is also be an effective treatment for Macular Degeneration.
If a person includes healthy foods like leafy vegetables and fish in their diet, it can prove to be beneficial for this condition.
If you want to know about foods you should avoid with Macular Degeneration, read What foods should be avoided with Macular Degeneration?
Nutritional Supplements
According to a study, Vitamins A, C, and E can effectively reduce Macular Degeneration.
Zinc can also potentially reduce the risk of advanced Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) in an individual.
However, it is always best to consult your doctor before using these supplements.
Medical Treatments for Macular Degeneration
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) states that the medications Pegcetacoplan and Avacincaptad Pegol can treat dry Macular Degeneration.
These medications work by slowing down the vision loss in an individual.
For wet AMD, doctors prescribe anti-VEGF drugs, which can prevent the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) protein.
Although these drugs are highly effective, consistent use of these medications is essential for optimal results.
The anti-VEGF drugs prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels in wet AMD.
Corticosteroids can also reduce the inflammation of the blood vessels and slow down the progression.
Surgical Treatments
Source: PixelshotAlthough medicines for Macular Degeneration are effective, some people may require surgery.
Macular Relocation surgery is one of the alternatives that are under research for its effectiveness in treating the condition.
Doctors may also choose surgical methods like Laser therapy and Photodynamic Therapy.
These surgical methods seal the blood vessels or remove abnormal tissue, depending on the type and progression of the condition.
Conclusion
Learning about Macular Degeneration treatment is important since leaving it untreated can lead to central vision loss.
Lifestyle modifications like wearing sunglasses, reducing smoking and drinking, and maintaining high blood pressure and cholesterol levels can help reduce Macular Degeneration.
Vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc, can effectively reduce the progression of the condition.
Doctors may prescribe medicines like Pegcetacoplan and Avacincaptad Pegol to treat dry Macular Generation.
For wet Macular Degeneration, anti-VEGF drugs are the most effective options.In severe cases, doctors may suggest surgical methods like Laser therapy, Photodynamic Therapy, and Macular Relocation surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Macular Degeneration need prompt treatment?
Yes, Macular Degeneration needs prompt treatment, particularly in the wet form. In wet Macular Degeneration, vision loss progresses rapidly, which can require faster treatment.
Can Macular Degeneration treatments completely restore lost vision?
No, Macular Degeneration treatments cannot completely restore lost vision. However, on-time treatment can protect one’s current vision and slow down the progress of the condition.
Can you prevent Macular Degeneration?
Yes, you can prevent or reduce the risk of Macular Degeneration. If a person quits smoking, maintains a healthy diet with leafy vegetables, and maintains their blood pressure, it can reduce the risk of experiencing Macular Degeneration.
How do doctors diagnose Macular Degeneration?
Doctors diagnose Macular Degeneration through comprehensive eye exams, which include visual acuity tests, dilated eye exams to examine the retina, and imaging tests like Optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans and Fluorescein Angiography.
In some cases, doctors may also use Amsler grid testing to help detect central vision distortions
What is the cost associated with different Macular Degeneration treatments?
The cost of the different Macular Degeneration treatments depends upon the type of medication that is being used for the treatment. While the anti-VEGF injections may have lower prices, the surgical options may cost comparatively more.
Cheap Medicine Shop only refers to credible, authoritative sources for our content. If you’re curious about how we ensure the integrity of our content, we encourage you to read our Content Information Policy.
