Macular Degeneration
There is as yet no outright cure for macular degeneration, but some treatments may delay its progression or even improve vision.
Treatments for Macular Degeneration
Treatment depend on whether the disease is in its early-stage, dry form or in the more advanced, wet form that can lead to serious vision loss. No FDA-approved treatments exist yet for dry macular degeneration, although nutritional intervention may help prevent its progression to the wet form.For wet AMD
Treatments aimed at stopping abnormal blood vessel growth include FDA-approved drugs; Lucentis, Macugen and Visudyne used with Photodynamic Therapy or PDT. Lucentis has been shown to improve vision in a significant number of people with macular degeneration.Nutrition and Macular Degeneration
Many researchers and eye care practitioners believe that certain nutrients — zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamins A, C and E — help lower the risk for AMD or slow down the progression of dry macular degeneration. Benefits of high levels of antioxidants and zinc for halting or slowing development of macular degeneration have been widely reported based on results released in 2001 from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) conducted by the National Eye Institute.Phase two of the AREDS study began in late 2005 to evaluate whether similar protective effects against AMD might be associated with other nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids or "good fats," and lutein and zeaxanthin found in green, leafy vegetables.
Archives of Ophthalmology reported findings in August 2001 that consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, which are particularly prevalent in cold-water fish, also had a protective effect against advanced macular degeneration. Meanwhile, consumption of omega-6 fatty acids, prevalent in vegetable oils, was associated with an increased risk of developing AMD.
Testing and Low Vision Devices for Macular Degeneration Treatment
Although much progress has been made recently in macular degeneration treatment research, complete recovery of vision lost from AMD is unlikely. Your eye doctor may ask you to check your vision regularly with the Amsler grid. Viewing the Amsler grid separately with each eye helps you monitor your vision loss. The Amsler grid is a very sensitive test that typically reveals clinical findings before the doctor can actually see physical findings. An Amsler grid can be given to you during your eye exam. Detailed instructions will be given to allow you to monitor your vision daily at home.For those who have suffered vision loss, many low vision devices are available to help with vision tasks by using magnifying lenses and bright lights. Some low vision aids shift images to the periphery for clearer vision.
For more information or to make an appointment call Zaffater Eye Center: 318-747-5838 or Toll Free: 866-480-3937.