Treatment of AMD?

What causes age-related macular degeneration ?

Aging raises several considerations in terms of health, and eyes are not immune to its effects. Age-related macular degeneration, commonly referred to as AMD, is a condition whose prevalence increases exponentially after the age of 75. In general, the early stages of the disease cause little or no visual symptoms for those who have it.

The most common form of the disease is called dry AMD. It is characterized by the accumulation of metabolic waste in the deep layers of the retina. This waste, called drusen, can potentially destroy the photoreceptors and cause vision problems.

What are the differences between wet and dry AMD?

Dry AMD only affects the deeper layers of the retina. However, when the disease worsens, the layer of the retina that preserves the impermeability of the tissue loses its properties, which allows liquid to leak under and into the macula. Since the macula is the area of the retina that contains a high concentration of cones (photoreceptors), the liquid causes a significant and rapid decline of vision. This is what is called wet AMD.

A new promising treatments for dry AMD

Although there is no treatment as such to eliminate dry AMD, science brings hope. Indeed, studies conducted over several years have shown that a formulation of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in pill form makes it possible to slow the progression of dry AMD in some patients.

Medical treatments to cure wet AMD

Treatment of wet AMD consists of an intraocular injection of anti-VEGF, which is repeated every 4 to 8 weeks. However, it is essential to detect the condition early, because too advanced forms of wet AMD do not respond well to injections.

4 ways to reduce the chances of having age-related macular degeneration

1. Stop smoking. Tobacco leads to several health problems and may adversely affect the health of the eye.
2. Control your cardiovascular conditions. Diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol are factors that contribute to the development of eye disease.
3. Maintain a healthy weight. Regular physical activity has many benefits to avoid problems related to excess weight.
4. Eat more fruits and vegetables. A healthy diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, helps you to minimize the risks.

In summary, although many people will suffer from age-related macular degeneration from the age of 75, the early stages rarely cause visual symptoms. However, this condition can rapidly degenerate and turn into the wet form of AMD. It is therefore recommended to visit your optometrist on a regular basis in order to get appropriate treatment before the degeneration becomes untreatable.