Your eyes are your window to the world, and maintaining their health is crucial to preserving your quality of life. Macular degeneration is a condition that can affect your ability to see details, read, or recognize faces, but advancements in eye care have opened new avenues for managing it.
MacuMira is an innovative treatment designed to enhance macular health and support patients with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by slowing the progression of the disease.
If you’re unsure whether MacuMira is right for you or for a loved one with AMD, learning more and scheduling an eye exam can be great first steps in making the right choice.
What You Should Know About Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration, sometimes referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a progressive eye condition that impacts central vision while leaving peripheral vision unaffected. This condition results from damage to the macula, a small but vital part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision needed for tasks like reading and driving.
There are 2 primary types of macular degeneration:
- Dry AMD is the more common form and progresses gradually over time.
- Wet AMD is less common but advances rapidly due to abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina.
The likelihood of developing AMD increases with age, as it’s a leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 55. While age is the largest risk factor, it’s not the only one. Other factors can include genetics, smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity.
Macular Degeneration Symptoms
Macular degeneration can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making routine eye exams even more important as we age. Over time, those with AMD may notice blurred vision, dark spots at the center of their sight, or distorted straight lines. Colours may also appear dull or less vibrant.
An Amsler grid is a simple tool that can help spot changes in your central vision, which might be a sign of macular degeneration. It looks like a grid of straight lines with a dot in the middle. Here’s how to use it:
- Hold the grid at eye level in good light, about 12–15 inches away.
- Cover one eye and focus on the dot in the center with your other eye.
- While looking at the dot, check if any of the lines look wavy, blurry, or if parts of the grid are missing.
- Repeat with the other eye.
If you notice any changes or abnormalities, be sure to visit your eye doctor. We have precise diagnostic technology to confirm whether or not you have AMD. Timely diagnosis and proactive management are key to maintaining the healthiest vision possible.
MacuMira: A New Treatment for Dry AMD
MacuMira offers a promising treatment option for managing dry AMD. This technology works by delivering gentle microcurrent stimulation to the retina without damaging the surrounding tissue.
The process promotes better blood flow and triggers the production of cellular components that support macular health. With each treatment, your cells get better at clearing fat deposits called drusen and other waste byproducts affecting your vision health. This all comes together to slow AMD’s progression and help restore your vision.
The treatment is noninvasive, administered with the eyes closed, and provides patients with a practical solution to support their vision health without disrupting their daily routines. A clinical trial of Macumira demonstrated lasting effects, with 48% of treated patients improving by at least 10 letters on the ETDRS acuity chart. The trial also recorded an average acuity increase of 8.8 ETDRS letters, which corresponds to a 25% average improvement.
Who Can Benefit from MacuMira?
MacuMira is designed for patients living with dry age-related macular degeneration who are seeking ways to manage the condition and optimize their macular health. Whether or not MacuMira is appropriate depends on factors including:
- The current stage of macular degeneration.
- Overall eye health and any pre-existing conditions.
- The patient’s history with other treatments.
Does MacuMira Have Side Effects?
One of the most appealing aspects of MacuMira is its minimal risk profile. The treatment does not rely on invasive techniques or medication, making it a reassuring option for those concerned about side effects.
While MacuMira is generally well-tolerated, you should still discuss any pre-existing health concerns with your eye care professional before beginning treatment. A tailored approach means you can enjoy the best results and give your doctor time to address any unique considerations.
How Does MacuMira Work?
Administering MacuMira is a seamless process carried out by trained eye care professionals or ophthalmic technicians. Here’s how it works step-by-step:
- The patient is seated comfortably and asked to close their eyes.
- They will wear the MacuMira device over their eyes while the provider places 2 sticker-like electrodes on each side of the patient’s head.
- The microcurrent therapy is then applied gently to stimulate the macula and surrounding structures.
Each session lasts approximately 32 minutes and is designed to be stress-free. Throughout the treatment, your practitioner will check in to ensure you’re comfortable, making the experience smooth and reassuring.
The first treatment schedule is typically 4 sessions over 10 days. This is when many people first notice optimal visual improvements. After this, you’ll need to maintain the improvements with another treatment every 2–3 months.
A New Path Forward for Eye Health
Preserving your vision often requires exploring new technologies and treatment methods. With MacuMira, there’s an opportunity to enhance macular health and take steps to manage dry AMD effectively.
Protecting your eyesight begins with proactive care and expert guidance. Book an appointment with Erie Shores Eyecare today and learn how we can help you access innovative treatments like MacuMira. Our dedicated team of professionals is ready to support your vision care needs every step of the way.
