What is AMD? What Can I Do About AMD? Amsler Grid Testing
Wet AMD
Wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD) has several treatment options and more are being developed, aimed at either sealing off the leaking blood vessels (with a laser and light sensitive drug) and/or preventing the blood vessels from growing back (called anti-angiogenic therapies). Repeated treatments are needed and will be determined on an individual basis by your doctor. Some can be as often as once a month, but doctors are now finding that treatments can be spaced further apart and still be effective. Early detection and treatment is important for good results of any therapy for wet macular degeneration. The goal is to stop or slow the progression of wet AMD. While it is possible to restore some vision in patients treated early, none of the therapies can restore vision in an eye with scarring.
Dry AMD
Dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD) does not currently have a cure, but treatment focuses on slowing progression, protecting vision, and maximizing remaining sight.
Newer Treatments
- Geographic atrophy (advanced dry AMD) now has FDA-approved injectable treatments that may slow progression, but they do not restore vision and are not for early dry AMD.
- These are typically discussed with a retina specialist and depend on disease stage.
What’s Important to Know
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Dry AMD progresses slowly in most people
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Many patients maintain useful vision for years
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Early detection and proper management make a real difference
Macular Degeneration Overview
Intravitreal Injections: Post-Op
Eye Testing Options