2. MACULAR DEGENERATION

3. Macular Degeneration Types: -Atrophic (age-related) :dry -Exudative :wet Populations at Risk: Greater than 60 yrs. Old Females > Males White > African American Smoking Obesity http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/maculardegen/armd_fac ts.asp#1e

4. DRY TYPE DRY TYPE CAUSED BY: degeneration from age -retinal cells become ischemic S & S: blurring and distortion of central vision drusen formation PREVENTION: Nutrition use of antioxidants beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper

5. WET TYPE Wet type seen after a serous detachment of pigment epithelium in the macula S & S: sudden decrease in vision

6. Diagnostic Tests Annual eye exams Amsler Grid tests normal Fluorescein angiography (wet)

7. Treatment for Macular Degeneration Dry Macular Degeneration: no treatment but diet may help (various vitamins Wet Macular Degeneration -Laser photocoagulation -Photodynamic therapy (PDT) -Experimental treatments

8. NURSING MEASURES with PDT Pre Therapy: Teach patients the eye/skin sensitivity to sunlight Use lower watt lighting in home Post Therapy: Avoid sunlight and bright lights Wear protective sunglasses when in light Check with MD before taking OTC Keep well hydrated