Benefits of Photobiomodulation for Macular Degeneration
More than 21 million Americans experience age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and up to now, treatment options have been limited to slowing the progression of the disease and helping patients adapt to the loss of central vision that comes with it. Here at Paul Vision Institute, our Wilmington, NC eye doctors are excited to offer our patients photobiomodulation treatment for macular degeneration.
What is Photobiomodulation for Macular Degeneration?
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive type of red-to-infrared light therapy applied over a series of sessions over a period of 3 to 5 weeks. Our eye doctors in Wilmington, NC, have found PBM helpful for treating dry macular degeneration, particularly for patients with early stages of the disease. The benefits of photobiomodulation for AMD include:
1. Slow-Down in Disease Progression
Studies have shown that patients undergoing photobiomodulation for dry AMD were able to significantly slow and break down drusen deposit buildup that impairs vision. PBM was also shown to reduce inflammation and swelling of the eye tissues.
2. Inhibits Geographic Atrophy
As macular degeneration progresses, areas of cells on the retina shrink and die off, causing blind spots. PBM has been shown to slow and prevent cell wasting. In fact, it seems to boost the cells’ mitochondrial functions so they work better.
3. Visual Acuity Improvement
Until now, most macular degeneration treatments have been able to stall or slow vision loss. With photobiomodulation treatment, however, patients are actually experiencing improvements in visual acuity. On average, PBM patients can read an extra line on eye chart tests after completing one to two years of treatment!
Visit the Eye Doctors Wilmington Trusts for Macular Degeneration Treatment
If you are experiencing any vision problems, please schedule an appointment with us here at Paul Vision Institute. We look forward to providing you with the most caring, advanced vision care available today.
