While there's little that can be done for dry macular degeneration, the disease progresses very slowly, and will probably never completely black out the central vision. Many people with this condition live full lives without serious disability.
Some studies have suggested a link between poor nutrition and faster degeneration of the macula. According to this evidence, fruit and dark green vegetables like spinach can slow the disease and contribute to better outcomes. For some people, a doctor will recommend a daily supplement that contains zinc, copper, vitamin E, vitamin D, and beta-carotene or vitamin A.
There is no cure for wet macular degeneration, but treatment may help to slow it down. Laser surgery destroys tiny, newly grown blood vessels that may be bleeding into the macula. Photodynamic therapy may also be used. This involves injecting a medication called verteporfin* into a vein. Then, a light is used to activate the medication to close abnormal blood vessels. Medications injected into the eye, such as aflibercept, ranibizumab or pegaptanib, may be used to slow down the growth of blood vessels. Daily supplements may also be recommended.
It's been shown that bright sunlight may speed up the progress of macular degeneration. Those with the condition should consider wearing UV-protective sunglasses when they are outdoors during daytime hours.
People who have lost their vision may need magnifiers, strong reading glasses, and other devices to help them manage.
To help reduce your chances of getting macular degeneration:
- don't smoke
- exercise
- eat a healthy diet rich in leafy greens
- maintain a healthy weight
- wear sunglasses with UV protection during the day
*All medications have both common (generic) and brand names. The brand name is what a specific manufacturer calls the product (e.g., Tylenol®). The common name is the medical name for the medication (e.g., acetaminophen). A medication may have many brand names, but only one common name. This article lists medications by their common names. For information on a given medication, check our Drug Information database. For more information on brand names, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2021. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Macular-Degeneration