Macular degeneration treatment is available, and can help to dramatically slow the progress of this common problem. Patients that suffer from macular degeneration experience a number of different symptoms. Vision can become distorted, with portions missing from the center. Contrast sensitivity fades and colors become harder to differentiate. These symptoms will increase over time. Since the problem will only worsen, finding ways to slow its progress before the patient experiences many of these symptoms to a debilitating degree is vital. Macular degeneration treatment can help you retain more of your vision for longer.
Two Types of Macular Degeneration
There are two different types of macular degeneration, each requiring a different approach to treatment. The first is central geographic atrophy, or “dry” macular degeneration. This happens when the photoreceptors of the eye (also known as rods and cones) lose function due to the atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelial layer. The second type is called neovascular or exudative or “wet” macular dystrophy. This occurs when blood vessels abnormally grow through the Bruch’s membrane. Each requires a different macular dystrophy treatment to alleviate.
Choosing a Macular Dystrophy Treatment
The first step to finding a macular dystrophy treatment is talking to a medical professional. Your eye doctor can provide advice and determine which type of macular dystrophy you are suffering from. They can also make recommendations for an effective macular dystrophy treatment plan. In cases involving the wet form, there are a few treatment options. An injectable drug treatment, called anti-angiogenic therapy, can be used. Laser surgery, called photocoagulation is another option. Photodynamic therapy is a second injectable treatment that uses Visudyne and cold laser light. Finally, sub macular hemorrhage displacement surgery is another option, although it is very rarely used.
Dry macular degeneration generally progresses slowly and does not have a treatment that will reverse symptoms. Patients can take action to slow progress further so that symptoms take longer to develop. A common approach to macular degeneration treatment is the use of vitamin A, C and E supplements. Patients should talk to their doctor to create an ideal macular degeneration treatment plan.