Macular Degeneration
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| Macular Degeneration InfoCenter is an Internet resource that offers you an opportunity to research macular degeneration. Macular Degeneration InfoCenter does not offer medical advice or referrals. |
Macular Degeneration TreatmentOnce macular degeneration has been diagnosed, it is essential to begin the appropriate treatment immediately. Unfortunately, there is no FDA-approved treatment for many cases of this condition. While there is no cure for the disease, there are treatments and techniques to slow the progress of macular degeneration. The following are some of the most frequently used macular degeneration treatments. Nutritional TreatmentsThe most common type of the condition is generally known as “dry” macular degeneration. While this type affects nearly 90 percent of those with macular degeneration, there is no FDA-approved treatment. However, research has shown that nutritional therapies can help slow the progression of the disease and prevent it from developing into the more severe form of the condition known as “wet” macular degeneration. In one study sponsored by the National Eye Institute, high levels of certain vitamins and antioxidants were shown to have positive results. Vitamins A, E and C along with certain nutrients such as zinc and lutein have been shown to slow or even halt the progression of macular degeneration. Before beginning any new nutritional regimen, patients should always discuss their plan with their primary care physician and eye care professional. Drug TherapiesFor individuals with the more severe, wet form of macular degeneration, there are a number of FDA-approved drug treatments that have shown some success. Macugen, Lucentis, Avastin and Evison are four of the drugs that have been shown to effectively treat the disease during patient therapy and clinical trials. Photodynamic TherapyPhotodynamic therapy is another method that has demonstrated success in treating the wet form of macular degeneration. This relatively new treatment involves injecting a dye, which is then transported via the bloodstream to the retina of the eye. A low-energy laser is then applied to the macula of the retina to destroy leaking blood vessels without causing damage to healthy eye tissue. While macular degeneration is a serious condition, there are available treatments that allow patients to cope with the disease. Early detection is essential in order to begin a treatment regimen that is suited to the particular type of macular degeneration that the patient has. |