Hope for those with Age-Related Macular Degeneration - Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual impairment in Caucasians over the age of 50 in the United States. Although there is currently no cure, there is hope for those with AMD.
As part of Age-Related Macular Degeneration / Low Vision Awareness Month in February,
the physicians of Richmond Eye Associates, urge local residents to be screened for age-related vision problems by having regular eye exams and talking with their Eye M.D. about new treatments and low vision resources, if experiencing vision loss.
Macular degeneration is a progressive, usually painless disease that affects the macula, the spot on the retina at the back of the eye responsible for central vision, causing central vision to blur, but leaving peripheral vision intact. Thus, AMD does not lead to total blindness.
Research continues for AMD treatments, and I think we'll see increasingly effective treatments becoming available in the near future. For example, current findings show that high levels of zinc and antioxidants can play a key role in slowing the progression of advanced AMD and that conventional laser and photodynamic therapy can reduce the risk of moderate to severe vision loss in patients with specific forms of “wet” macular
degeneration. Other experimental treatments, including intraocular injections of
anti-neovascular factors and the insertion of a “retinal chip” which may restore vision loss are also currently being
investigated.
For now, however, people should beware of claims being made on the Internet, in newspapers and in magazines announcing cures for macular degeneration. Investigate the claims thoroughly and talk with your Eye M.D. before undergoing any
treatments. Most of these treatments have not been proven safe or effective, and may be very
costly. Vision loss doesn't have to mean loss of independence or quality of life. If you have low vision, ask your Eye M.D. about low vision rehabilitation. He or she can provide low vision services or refer you to local agencies that can help.
Early detection and treatment is the best defense against losing your vision. If you are at risk for macular degeneration, see your Eye M.D. for a complete eye exam at least every one to two years.
