Age-related macular degeneration is a common cause of vision loss among people over 50. The condition affects the central vision as the macula is damaged. People who suffer from AMD can end up losing their entire central vision. They can find it difficult to read the small print, drive, or even clearly see faces.
The disease does not affect peripheral or side vision, which means it does not lead to total vision loss. In some cases, it is possible to regain the lost central vision. You can find out if macular degeneration is reversible.
Dry Macular Degeneration
When dry MD is in the early stages, tiny deposits of drusen are present under the retina. The deposits are visible to an ophthalmologist, but the patient does not exhibit any symptoms. Taking antioxidant vitamins or a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fatty fish can help reduce the risk of vision loss.
The drusen in the eye can reduce over time. Statin treatment can also help reduce the drusen amount in the retina. Studies are still underway to prove the effectiveness of stem cell transplants for advanced dry MD.
Wet Macular Degeneration
Patients with wet macular degeneration develop leaky blood vessels that grow into the retina. In some cases, it is possible to reverse lost vision through injections of anti-VEGF (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor) antibodies into the eye.
The medications help reduce the leakage from the new blood vessels. The drugs help dry up the retina, returning it to its normal condition. This can help improve the patient’s vision.
Treatments For Macular Degeneration
Several treatments can help people who have macular degeneration regain some of their lost vision. The treatments include cataract removal, using glasses and other low vision magnifying devices, and getting implantable telescopes.
Increasing the amount of light can also help improve vision. Cataracts can reduce the light amount that gets to the retina. Removing cataracts will improve vision without affecting the retina.
Therapy Success Rate
The success rate of reversing vision loss will depend on the detection period of the condition. The sooner an individual goes for a diagnosis and begins treatment, the higher the chances of success. Regular eye exams are vital for detecting AMD.
If the eye doctor detects macular degeneration, they can closely monitor the vision during the checkup. It is possible to manage any changes in vision early to ensure effective treatment.
Risk Factors For Macular Degeneration
Some factors increase the risk of developing macular degeneration. The factors include being over 50 years old, smoking, and having hypertension or high blood pressure. People who regularly consume diets high in saturated fats have a high risk of developing an eye condition. The best way to ensure that you keep your eyes healthy is by scheduling regular visits to the eye doctor.
The symptoms of macular degeneration may be like those of other eye diseases. It is essential to visit an eye specialist for proper diagnosis. The diagnosis will involve different tests such as a visual acuity test, pupil dilation, fluorescein angiography, and an Amsler grid test.
To know if macular degeneration is reversible, visit Eyecare Center Optometrist, PSC, at our offices in Richmond, Lexington, Beattyville, Irvine, or McKee, Kentucky. You can call (859) 208-2020, (859) 623-6643, (859) 272-2449, (606) 464-8148, (606) 726-9321, or (606) 287-8477 today to schedule an appointment.