WET MACULAR DEGENERATION TREATMENT
ANTI-VEGF INJECTIONS
WET MACULAR DEGENERATION TREATMENT
ANTI-VEGF INJECTIONS
WHAT IS WET MACULAR DEGENERATION?
Wet macular degeneration (wet AMD) is a more advanced form of macular degeneration that affects the central part of the retina known as the macula. It is a less common form than dry AMD, but it leads to more severe vision loss and progresses rapidly. In wet AMD, abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and macula. These blood vessels become weak and leak fluid and blood into the macula, causing distortion, scarring, and rapid vision loss. The leakage of fluid and blood can lead to swelling and damage to the light-sensitive cells of the macula, resulting in a more severe and sudden loss of central vision compared to the dry form of AMD.
WHAT ARE ANTI-VEGF INJECTIONS?
Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections are a common and effective treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD). Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak blood and fluid, leading to rapid and severe vision loss in the central part of the visual field.
VEGF is a protein that promotes the growth of blood vessels. In the context of wet AMD, excessive VEGF production contributes to the development of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. Anti-VEGF injections work by blocking the action of VEGF, thereby inhibiting the growth of these abnormal blood vessels and reducing the leakage of fluid and blood into the retina.
Anti-VEGF injections have shown significant success in stabilizing or improving vision in many patients with wet AMD. It’s important for individuals undergoing this treatment to adhere to their recommended injection schedule and attend regular follow-up appointments with their eye care professional to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan