Understanding ARMD Treatments: What Are Your Options?
What are the treatment options for ARMD?
1. Anti-VEGF Injections (for Wet ARMD)
Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)injections are the most common and effective treatment for wet ARMD.
How They Work: Anti-VEGF medications, such as Avastin, Lucentis, or Eylea, block the growth of these abnormal blood vessels.
Benefits: Regular injections can reduce swelling, prevent further vision loss, and, in some cases, improve vision.
Frequency: Most patients need injections every 4–12 weeks, depending on their doctor’s recommendations.
2. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy may be used in certain cases of wet ARMD to target and destroy abnormal blood vessels.
Traditional Laser Photocoagulation: This method seals off leaking blood vessels but may result in some peripheral vision loss.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A light-sensitive drug is injected into the bloodstream and activated with a laser to target abnormal vessels without harming healthy tissue.
3. Nutritional Supplements (for Dry ARMD)
While no direct treatment exists for dry ARMD, certain vitamins and minerals can slow its progression. The AREDS2 formula includes:
Vitamins C and E
Zinc
Copper
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
4. Potential Upcoming Treatments
Researchers are constantly exploring new treatments for ARMD. Promising developments include:
Gene Therapy: Targeting genetic causes of ARMD to prevent or slow progression.
Stem Cell Therapy: Replacing damaged retinal cells to restore vision.
New Medications: Advanced drugs targeting inflammation and oxidative stress in the retina.
Low Vision Aids to Support Daily Life
For those with significant vision loss, low vision aids can make daily activities easier and help maintain independence.
Magnifiers: Handheld or stand magnifiers enlarge text and objects for easier viewing.
Digital Readers: Devices like Kindles or tablets let you adjust text size and contrast, with some offering text-to-speech.
Screen Readers: Tools like JAWS or NVDA convert screen text to speech or braille for accessibility.
Electronic Magnifiers: Devices that project magnified images onto a screen, ideal for reading or viewing photos.
Lighting Adjustments: Bright, adjustable lamps with minimal glare improve contrast and visibility for ARMD patients.
Living with ARMD doesn’t mean giving up on the activities you love. With the right treatments and tools, you can maintain your independence and enjoy a fulfilling life.
Schedule a consultation with LivingHope Vision Clinic today, and let us help you preserve your vision and quality of life.
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