If you’ve been diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (also known as AMD or dry AMD), you may be wondering if treatments are available to help you manage.
Although diagnosis can feel daunting, the good news is that treatments for AMD are available. At Dry AMD Clinic, we specialise in evidence-based, non-invasive therapies designed to support and restore eye health. In this guide, we explain how dry AMD is treated and outline what you can expect from our tailored approach.
Macular Degeneration Treatments: Photobiomodulation
Here at Dry AMD Clinic, we work to treat dry AMD with a technique called photobiomodulation (PBM). It is a non-invasive form of treatment that delivers specific wavelengths of light to the cells in the eyes, which combats the symptoms of AMD.
There are two phases of dry AMD treatment per treatment session here at Dry AMD Clinic:
Yellow Light Therapy
Using a wavelength of 590 nanometres, yellow light is applied to the patient’s eyes for a duration of six minutes: five minutes with their eyes closed, and one minute with their eyes open.
This specific wavelength of light has been proven to help prevent the growth of blood vessels that contribute to wet AMD, and also boosts the production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide protects cells from damage, and improves oxygen delivery to the macula, which helps to prevent the progression of dry AMD.
Red Light Therapy
Once yellow light has been applied for a total of six minutes, the patient is then exposed to red light with a wavelength of 630 nanometres for a further six minutes. It is applied in the same pattern as yellow light: five minutes with the eyes closed, and one minute with the eyes open.
Red light significantly boosts the production of ATP, adenosine triphosphate), which is the primary energy of the cell. As the cell is producing greater amounts of energy, it can combat oxidative stress and begin to repair cells that have deteriorated due to dry AMD.
Managing AMD
Alongside dedicated treatment of macular degeneration, there are several steps you can take to help maintain your vision:
Low Vision Aids
Dry AMD causes a loss of central vision, and can make everyday items blurry and difficult to see. Low vision aids can help make the most of your vision, even if it has been impacted by AMD. Options include:
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Bright, directional lighting to reduce visual strain
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Magnifying lenses or digital magnifiers for reading and detail work
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Large-print books or audio alternatives to everyday items
Supplements
There is some evidence that supplements, specifically those containing lutein and zeaxanthin, can support macular health. Lutein and zeaxanthin are both powerful antioxidants, and can protect the eye from free radicals and prevent or slow the progression of dry AMD.
Lifestyle Changes
There are several modifiable lifestyle factors that can help reduce your risk of AMD progression:
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Quit smoking: Smoking introduces free radicals that damage eye tissues and accelerate vision loss.
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Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases inflammation, which may worsen macular degeneration.
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Eat a balanced, eye-friendly diet: Leafy greens, colourful vegetables, and oily fish rich in omega-3s help support long-term eye health.
These changes, combined with clinical treatment, offer the best long-term protection against dry AMD.
AMD Treatment From Dry AMD Clinic
Leveraging top-of-the-line photobiomodulation technology, Dry AMD Clinic is at the forefront of AMD treatment in the UK. Led by a team of experts, we take a proactive approach to dry AMD treatment, utilising only the best technology to get the best results for our clients.
If you or a loved one is living with dry AMD, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. Book your initial assessment with Dry AMD Clinic today, and let us help you protect your vision - now and in the future.