Macular degeneration, also called age-related macular degeneration (AMD), causes the impairment of central vision that helps people see shapes, details, and colors. Individuals aged 65 and above are more prone to this condition. AMD is responsible for irreversible vision loss, and nearly 15 million people in the country live with this condition. Read on to learn more about age-related macular degeneration, its types, and treatment options suggested for managing it.

Types of AMD
This health condition is categorized into two – dry AMD and wet AMD. The dry form of age-related macular degeneration is common and is observed among 85-90% of patients. However, the wet form is more severe as it can lead to permanent central vision loss. Some common symptoms of AMD include blurry vision, difficulty recognizing familiar faces, straight lines that appear wavy, and blind spots that appear in the center of vision.

Dry AMD
The macula is an integral part of the eye. It helps a person see clearly and is located in the retina’s center. Dry AMD develops gradually and is caused by changes in the macula. In this condition, drusen are formed under the macula, interfering with central vision. Drusen are the yellow deposits of protein and lipid clusters that form under the macula.

Wet AMD
This condition happens from irregular blood vessels forming under the macula. Fluid leaks from these blood vessels into the retina, reducing vision. Usually, in comparison to dry AMD, vision loss is more acute in wet AMD. This condition usually advances fast, and vision loss can happen within days if left untreated. Therefore, timely treatment is important to keep wet AMD at bay.

Aflibercept
Aflibercept is a treatment used to treat the wet form of AMD. It is created from the human antibody fragment and helps prevent the formation of new blood vessels under the retina. In some cases, the appearance of blood vessels under the retina causes fluid leakage, especially in wet AMD. Aflibercept also helps treat swelling in the retina triggered by blood vessel blockage.

How is aflibercept used?
Aflibercept comes as a solution or liquid injected into the eye by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. It is administered as per the patient’s schedule and health condition. The doctor cleans the patient’s eye before administering this treatment to prevent infections. Also, the eye must be kept numb, so the patient does not experience any discomfort. Once the treatment is administered, the doctor will examine the eye to check for any side effects.

It is important to note that treatments like aflibercept can only control certain eye conditions, not cure them entirely. Therefore, it is essential to remain in touch with the doctor to check how they work for the patient. This treatment is generally done once every four to twelve weeks, depending on the condition. Therefore, following the doctor’s advice and suggestions is important.

Precautions
Patients are advised against using this treatment if they are allergic to it or experience swelling inside the eyes or infection in or around the eyes (can be viral, bacterial, or fungal). Also, consult a healthcare expert if one experiences the following-

• Stroke or a blood clot
• Glaucoma or any other condition that may promote pressure inside the eyes

Before opting for aflibercept, patients must disclose to their therapist if they are pregnant or plan to get pregnant soon because it is important to use effective birth control for at least three months after the last dose of aflibercept. Furthermore, patients are advised against breastfeeding while taking this treatment. One should discuss with the doctor if they are taking certain supplements or herbal products or undergoing any other treatment.

Warnings
One should not operate machinery or drive after this treatment. First, let the vision get restored to normal. Also, consult the doctor immediately if there is a change in vision, redness in the eyes, swelling, puffiness, or eye pain during or after the treatment.

Side effects
Aflibercept has certain side effects, including sudden vision problems, chest pain, sudden weakness or numbness, severe headache, problems or confusion with speech and balance, increased eye sensitivity to light, and seeing flashes of light. Other common complications include blurred vision, watery or red eyes, swelling of the eyelids, and mild discomfort or pain after treatment. It is always advised to consult the doctor for proper treatment and other details according to the individual’s health condition.