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  • karlwhittaker@devoneyesurgeon.co.uk
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Macula Degeneration Treatment

Currently, there is no cure for either form of AMD. Management is aimed at slowing its progression and minimising the effect it has on daily activities. However, some patients with wet AMD have actually regained vision following treatment.

Treatment for Dry AMD

  1. Low vision clinic appointment. At North Devon District Hospital, optometrists provide useful advice and practical support in the form of magnifying lenses, large print books and reading lights. There are also a number of devices that can help you adjust to low vision, such as screen-reading software on your computer.
  2. Diet and nutrition. There is some evidence that the progression of the condition may be slowed by a diet high in specific vitamins A (beta-carotene), C, and E, as well as substances called lutein and zeaxanthin. Foods high in vitamins A, C, and E include oranges, kiwi fruit, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes and carrots. Green leafy vegetables are also a good source of lutein, as are peas, mangos and sweetcorn.

Treatment for Wet AMD

The main treatment for wet AMD is ‘anti-VEGF medication’ to prevent the growth of new blood vessels in the eye.

VEGF stands for 'vascular endothelial growth factor'. It is one of the chemicals responsible for the growth of new blood vessels that form in the eye as a result of wet AMD.

A tiny quantity of anti-VEGF is injected into the vitreous cavity, after the eye has been numbed with anaesthetic drops. These drugs need to be injected into the eye at regular intervals until the condition becomes inactive.

Macula Degeneration Links

  • Macula Degeneration Introduction
  • Macula Degeneration Treatment

About Mr. Karl Whittaker

I graduated from Birmingham University in 1992, and have been an Eye Specialist for almost 20 years.

Following my Ophthalmology Specialist Training, I completed two Fellowships (advanced training) in glaucoma, working with the world-renowned Professor Anthony Molteno in New Zealand and Professor Peter Shah in Birmingham. Thereafter, I undertook a Fellowship in oculoplastic/lacrimal surgery, again in Birmingham. As a result, I am dual-qualified, which allows me to perform a wide range of ophthalmic procedures.

I have been a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the North Devon Healthcare NHS Trust since 2003. In this role, I perform high volume cataract surgery and am the Clinical Lead for the Glaucoma and Oculoplastic/Lacrimal Surgery services.

Practice Location

  • Ophthalmology Department
  • Level 1
  • North Devon District Hospital
  • Barnstaple
  • EX31 4JB

Tel: 07503751349 | 01271 349128
Email: karlwhittaker@devoneyesurgeon.co.uk

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