[vc_row gap=”20″][vc_column css_animation=”fadeInLeft” width=”1/3″][ult_sticky_section sticky_gutter=”150″]
[vc_empty_space height=”10″][vc_empty_space height=”10px”]Treatments[vc_empty_space height=”10px”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_hidden-sm vc_hidden-xs”][vc_widget_sidebar show_bg=”false” sidebar_id=”sidebar_3″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/ult_sticky_section][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″]There are two main types of AMD: dry AMD and wet AMD. Dry AMD, which is more common, occurs when the macula thins and small deposits called drusen accumulate. This leads to gradual central vision loss. Wet AMD, although less common, is more severe. It involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina, which can leak fluid or blood, causing rapid and significant vision loss.
Risk factors for AMD include advanced age, family history, smoking, obesity, hypertension, and certain genetic factors. Symptoms may include blurred or distorted central vision, difficulties recognizing faces, decreased color perception, and the appearance of dark or empty areas in the central visual field.
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination, including visual acuity tests, dilated eye exams, and imaging tests (such as optical coherence tomography or fluorescein angiography) to evaluate the retina and macula.
While there is no cure for AMD, management strategies aim to slow its progression and preserve existing vision. Treatment options depend on the type and stage of AMD. For dry AMD, nutritional supplements, lifestyle modifications (such as quitting smoking and adopting a healthy diet), and regular monitoring are recommended. Wet AMD may be treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medications, laser therapy, or photodynamic therapy to prevent further vision loss.
Early detection and timely intervention are crucial in managing AMD and preserving vision. Regular eye examinations, especially for individuals at higher risk, are important for early detection and appropriate management. Low vision aids, rehabilitation services, and support from vision specialists can help individuals with significant vision loss adapt and maintain independence in daily activities.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner el_id=”doctor-and-specialist”][vc_column_inner][vc_widget_sidebar show_bg=”false” sidebar_id=”sidebar_4″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner]
Retinal specialists are medical professionals who have completed a medical degree followed by a residency program in ophthalmology and further specialized training in diseases and surgery of the retina. They possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of retinal diseases, including macular degeneration.
Retinal specialists utilize various diagnostic techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography, to assess the extent and progression of macular degeneration. They closely monitor changes in the macula over time to determine the appropriate treatment approach.
Treatment options for macular degeneration may include intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medications, which help to slow down the progression of the disease and preserve vision. Retinal specialists perform these injections, often on a recurring basis, to manage the condition effectively.
In addition to medical treatments, retinal specialists may also provide guidance on lifestyle modifications and visual aids to optimize visual function for individuals with macular degeneration.
Retinal specialists work collaboratively with other eye care professionals, such as optometrists and low vision specialists, to provide comprehensive care for patients with macular degeneration. They continually monitor the condition, make adjustments to treatment plans as necessary, and provide ongoing support and management to optimize visual outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by macular degeneration.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner disable_element=”yes”][vc_column_inner][vc_cta h2=”Doctor and Specialists” h2_font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” h2_use_theme_fonts=”yes” h4_font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” add_icon=”top” i_icon_fontawesome=”fas fa-heartbeat” i_size=”xl” i_css_animation=”fadeInLeft” css_animation=”fadeIn” use_custom_fonts_h2=”true” use_custom_fonts_h4=”true”]Dermatologists are doctors or physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions, including acne. They are trained to identify the different types of acne and their underlying causes, as well as to develop personalized treatment plans for their patients based on the severity of their condition and their individual needs. Dermatologists may also perform procedures such as extractions, chemical peels, and light therapies to treat acne and improve the appearance of the skin.
In addition to dermatologists, primary care physicians, pediatricians, and gynecologists may also treat acne in their patients, particularly those with milder forms of the condition. However, for more severe cases or those that do not respond to initial treatments, a referral to a dermatologist may be necessary to ensure appropriate management of the condition. Patients with acne may also seek the advice of an esthetician, who can provide guidance on skin care routines and recommend over-the-counter products to help manage the condition.[/vc_cta][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner el_id=”treatments”][vc_column_inner][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”500×200″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner]
Dry macular degeneration:
Nutritional supplements: Certain high-dose antioxidant vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, and lutein/zeaxanthin, may be recommended to slow down the progression of dry macular degeneration.
Regular eye exams: Monitoring the condition through regular eye exams allows for early detection of any changes and timely intervention.
Wet macular degeneration:
Anti-VEGF injections: Intravitreal injections of drugs that block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are the primary treatment for wet macular degeneration. These injections help to reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage, preserving vision and preventing further damage.
Photodynamic therapy: In some cases, photodynamic therapy using a photosensitizing drug and a laser may be employed to selectively target and destroy abnormal blood vessels in the macula.
Laser therapy: Laser treatment may be used to seal or destroy abnormal blood vessels, but it is less commonly used in comparison to anti-VEGF injections.
Low vision aids and support: Low vision aids, such as magnifying devices, specialized glasses, or visual rehabilitation, can help individuals with macular degeneration make the most of their remaining vision. Support from low vision specialists and vision rehabilitation services can assist with adapting to vision loss and maintaining independence.
It is important for individuals with macular degeneration to have regular eye examinations and consult with an ophthalmologist or retinal specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment options for their specific condition.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
