Only 43 with Intermediate Dry Macular Degeneration

by Brian
(Carlton, WA)

Well, just went in for a typical eye exam. The picture of my right eye looked almost identical to the poster on the wall of macular degeneration.

My left eye had a few spots but nowhere near as many as my right. I am in good health, good weight, excercise regularly, and eat well.

There is no history of macular degeneration in either side of my family. Needless to say I am devastated. I have begun a vitamin and Omega 3 program but am not hopeful.

Don't know what else I can do at this point. Open to any suggestions. Don't feel hopeful with my relatively early age.

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Only 43 with Intermediate Dry Macular Degeneration

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May 16, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Macular Degeneration Clinical Trials
by: Anonymous

I am 45 and was diagnosed almost 10 years ago. I have been trying to find clinical trials, but it seems like almost all of them are a minimal age of 50.

I have some good years where it progresses worse than others, so I can relate to your feeling of hopelessness.

I have been unable to find a support group in my region, so any support you need, we are here for you.
May 16, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Website Info
by: Anonymous

Thank you for the information on the two websites. I found the one very helpful.

I have dry macular degeneration in both eyes with the left also affected with the wet. I did not even know about macular degeneration until I was diagnosed with wet macular degeneration at 49; 15 months ago. Good luck to all of you.
May 16, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks you for your encouragement
by: Elizabeth

Barry,

Your advice is very good. Indeed it is so important to keep researching. You can either try to get involved in a clinical trial or talk to a retina specialist who is knowledgeable about what is soon to be available. Never give up hope.
May 16, 2011
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starstar 		There's something new
by: Barry Fivecoat

There are always new drugs and treatments for your condition. http://www.amdsupport.ca/2010/09/20/soliris-a-treatment-for-dry-macular-degeneration/

http://blog.visivite.com/2010/03/new-drug-to-treat-dry-macular-degeneration-on-fdas-fast-track/

These two links came up with just a cursory glance at the Internet. You should look into them yourself, of course, and I believe there are other treatments on the horizon. Ask your doctor what he knows about programs and drugs like these. I think you also should look for every clinical trial that you can find. Clinicaltrials.gov is a good place to start, as well as the individual drug company's own websites.
I have the wet (and a very agressive) form and have lost one eye already because no effective treatment was available. The other would be just as bad if left alone. I'm uninsured to boot. Fortunately, the clinical trial came along just a few months ago and has improved the condition. They're paying me to do it, too!

I understand your mental condition, but eventually one should push that aside. This is what you should do: NEVER take for granted what a doctor tells you. I'll bet your doctor told you there is no treatment. Not true. There are trials available all over the country. Always be proactive. This is your body and your eyes. Don't let anyone make your decisions for you. I keep myself well armed with information.
Feel free to find me by the name Barry Fivecoat on Facebook if you need further encouragement. I'd be honored to help if it's in my power to do so.

Barry
Phoenix AZ

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