Treatment
Treatment may include:
Dry AMD
Research has shown that certain high-dose vitamins and minerals may slow the progression of the disease in some people.
Wet AMD
Laser Photocoagulation
This procedure is used in some cases of wet AMD. A strong laser light beam is aimed onto the new blood vessels. The beam will destroy the vessels. It usually takes less than 30 minutes to complete. You may need additional laser treatments. This treatment is used less often since the development of newer treatments.
Photodynamic Therapy
This procedure is a type of treatment that involves injecting a light-sensitive dye into the blood. The affected areas in the back of the eye are then hit with a special laser light. The light activates the dye to destroy certain blood vessels. It also takes less than 30 minutes. You may need to have additional treatments.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitor
Another way to treat wet AMD is an injection of a special medication. It is called a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor. The medicine is injected into the vitreous (fluid) in the back of the eye. This method is quickly growing in popularity. It usually needs to be repeated multiple times. In rare cases, it may need to be given indefinitely.
About 1/3 of patients will show significant improvement in vision. This is the first treatments to show improved vision in a significant number of patients.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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