Frequently Asked Questions
Macular Degeneration Treatments
What Treatment options are available for wet MD?
Injections of Lucentis, Eylea and Vabysmo are the most commonly used medications for Neovascular (Wet) MD. These injections are performed in the clinic
Does Laser Work?
Unfortunately the traditional laser was not effective but newer lasers are being developed. We will wait the results of these trials.
What about Vitamins?
These have been shown to be helpful in patients with moderate amount of macular degeneration or have lost vision in one eye already. There are several manufacturers in Australia, and are available without prescription.
What are the early symptoms?
Initially, there are no symptoms. As it progresses, patient may notice increasing distortions, or difficulty reading.
​
Will I go blind?
Patients will MD generally do not become totally blind. Their peripheral vision is generally maintained but the central (reading, driving) vision is damaged. Patients retain enough vision to be able to self care and can still live relatively independently.
​
Is there any treatment for dry MD?
We anticipate in the near future we will have drugs like pegcetacoplan (Syfovre) available for use in Australia. This treatment slows the progression of the disease process. In some patients, monthly injections of the drug slows the progression by 20% over 2 years, thereby allowing more useful years of vision. This drug and others (Avacincaptad pegol) like it, is currently being assessed by the Therapeutics Goods Administration.
​
What can I eat to help my macular?*
-
Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet
-
Eat dark green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit daily
-
Eat fish two to three times a week
-
Eat a handful of nuts a week
-
Eat one orange daily
​
* Source -Macular Disease Foundation
​
Are eye injections painful?
Surprisingly no! We use anaesthetic eye drops first which can be a bit stingy but after that, with the good technique, the eye injection is painless.
Why do I need ongoing injections?
Unfortunately when the medicine injected into the eye wears off, the active disease returns. There is usually a need to continue these injections indefinitely unless advised by your doctor.
​
What are the important warning signs?
New or rapidly increasing distortions, Loss of vision, and a central dark patch in the vision.
​
How do I monitor my macular?
Traditionally we use an Amsler grid, but any grid or horizontal or vertical venetian blinds will do. Make sure the vision is tested one eye at a time. Make sure the lines remain straight. If distortions are noted, please contact your doctor/optometrist ASAP.