What is the typical course of action for someone diagnosed with macular degeneration?

The typical course of action for someone diagnosed with macular degeneration involves regular monitoring and treatment options, such as anti-VEGF injections. Macular degeneration, particularly the wet form, is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss. Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections are a common treatment to reduce or stabilize vision loss by inhibiting these abnormal blood vessels.

Regular monitoring is crucial because it allows healthcare providers to assess the progression of the disease and adjust treatment plans accordingly. This might include imaging studies to look for changes in the retina and to evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing treatments.

Surgery is not typically an immediate option for macular degeneration, as the condition does not usually lend itself to surgical correction of vision. Referrals to opticians may occur, but they are not the primary course of action since opticians primarily assist with optical aids and do not provide medical treatment for the disease. Increased physical activity may be beneficial for overall health but is not a recognized treatment specifically for macular degeneration. Therefore, the most appropriate and established approach is regular monitoring combined with treatments like anti-VEGF injections to manage the condition.