There is currently no cure for macular degeneration, but treatments may prevent severe vision loss or slow the progression of the disease considerably. Several options are available, including:
- Anti-angiogenesis drugs like (Avastin, Eyelea, Lucentis, Macugen) block the development of new blood vessels and leakage from the abnormal vessels within the eye that cause wet macular degeneration. This treatment has been an improvement over previous treatment methods, and many patients have actually regained vision that was lost. The treatment may need to be repeated during follow-up visits.
- Laser therapy with High-energy laser light can sometimes be used to destroy actively growing abnormal blood vessels that occur in macular degeneration.
- Photodynamic laser therapy is a two-step treatment in which a light-sensitive drug (Visudyne) is used to damage the abnormal blood vessels. A doctor injects the drug into the bloodstream to be absorbed by the abnormal blood vessels in the eye. The doctor then shines a cold laser into the eye to activate the drug, damaging the abnormal blood vessels.
- Low-vision aids are devices that have special lenses or electronic systems that produce enlarged images of nearby objects. They help people who have vision loss from macular degeneration make the most of their remaining vision.
People rarely lose all of their vision from age-related macular degeneration. They may have poor central vision, but they are still able to perform many normal daily activities.
The wet form of macular degeneration is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss. When both eyes are affected, you may experience a significant decrease in your quality of life.
The dry form of age-related macular degeneration is much more common and tends to progress more slowly, allowing you to keep most of your vision.
Unfortunately, even after wet macular degeneration treatment, the condition can recur and require repeated treatments. Because of this, individuals with macular degeneration must test their own vision regularly and follow the recommendations of their ophthalmologist. Successful and timely treatment will slow the rate of vision loss and often improve vision.
Using a screening tool called the Amsler grid may help detect subtle changes in your vision. You can monitor your vision daily by looking at an Amsler grid. You should also stop smoking, eat a balanced diet that includes leafy green vegetables, and protect your eyes from UV light by wearing protective sunglasses or head gear with brims.