Find out how you can stay on top of wet AMD.
There are 200,000 Americans confirmed to have wet AMD every year. Wet AMD is a chronic eye disorder that causes blind spots, distorted vision, and vision loss. It is so named because of the blood or fluid leakage into the macula, which is the part of the eye that allows us to read and see in fine detail.
What you should know about wet AMD treatment
People with wet AMD can lose vision rapidly, sometimes within weeks. If you are diagnosed with wet AMD, your doctor may initiate your treatment sometimes within days. If treated too late, the vision loss may be permanent.
The most common treatments are anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGFs). An anti-VEGF can only be given in clinics and carried out by your eye doctor. Depending on your situation, you may need to receive treatments every month to every four months.
As the condition may worsen rapidly, permanent vision loss may occur if you miss your treatment.
What can I do to manage wet AMD?
You can do the following to manage your wet AMD and slow its progression.
- Keep to your appointments. Follow your eye doctor's recommended follow-up schedule, especially your treatment visits.
- If you smoke, ask for help and quit. Smoking may decrease the effectiveness of your treatment. If you smoke, ask your doctor if there is a smoking cessation program near you.
- Manage other medical conditions. For example, if you have cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, take your medication and follow your doctor's instructions.
- Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly. If you need to lose weight, manage your calories and exercise regularly.
- Choose a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Make sure you have a healthy diet full of different fruits and vegetables – eat plenty of dark, leafy greens like spinach. They contain antioxidants and vitamins that are helpful to your eye health.
- Include fish and nuts in your diet. Fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel) and nuts (such as walnuts, peanut, and hazelnut) are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which may protect your eyes as you age.
- Tell your loved ones. Many people with wet AMD may find it difficult to tell others and worry about their reactions. However, telling them is the first step in ensuring you get the support you may need.
Follow these tips and stay on top of wet AMD.
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