DNA markers for AMD
I recently got my DNA analyzed to see what other surprises might be lurking in my future. I only have 3 markers for genetic issues and all 3 are for AMD. I was diagnosed with early AMD about 3 years ago so I take AREDs and get regular check ups. I am wondering how many other in the AMD group found that in their DNA as well. What does 3 markers mean? I will go totally blind? I am an artist (painter) and cellist so this is not a happy thing to learn about my bodily inheritance.
I have a strong family history for macular degeneration. The rate of progression has been quite different for each of us. There are several modifiable risk factors for macular degeneration that may slow progression. https://maculardegeneration.net/lifestyle-changes/. People with advanced macular degeneration may lose their central vision but keep peripheral vision.
The best thing any of us can do to lower the risk of progression is to live a healthy lifestyle and make changes as needed. This article about DNA markers might be helpful to you https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/age-related-macular-degeneration-amd-genetics. Regards, Sharon Moore patient leaderThank you, the article on DNA is helpful. I have always done the others: eat fresh fruit & veggies, healthy weight, low BP, great cholesterol numbers, no diabetes, never smoked or toked, and regular eye exams. Now I take AREDs as one more defense but at 76, it looks like my genes have the final say.
I am glad the article on DNA was helpful. Your eyes will thank you for living such a healthy lifestyle. Continuing your health lifestyle is the best way to lower your risk of developing age related macular degeneration. Warm regards, Sharon Moore patient leader
I have always lived very healthy which finally caught up with me AMD for 4 years. Then in 6 months GA in right eye. Took first injection Syfovre as soon as available only in right bad eye.
about 6 shots no change, eyesight got worse. Changed to Izervay. No difference. Just found out my good left eye is now GA , that change happened in 3 months. Now I get shots in both eyes. My doc and myself of course is shocked. I am going to be 80 this year and have to adjust to a different life. Very frustrating but have to keep my spirits up. Good luck everybody moore I can understand your shock and dismay with such rapid progression. I believe there is so much still unknown in regard to why some progress rapidly while other do not. Are you getting Izervay monthly? My doctor says he had to switch some patients from every 2 months to monthly. So far it’s working well for me and I continue with treatment every 2 months. Keeping a positive attitude may help you cope better. Have you visited a low vision clinic to see the tools to help you manage with vision loss? Regards, Sharon Moore patient leader
My progression was very slow…I was diagnosed in 2009..but only after having cataracts removed…I said to the Dr. How come no one ever found it when I had my eyes checked…he said because you will not find it during a routine eye exam if you have cataracts …I just had routine appts. with a Retina Specialist and not till 2024, exactly 2 months ago did I get my 2nd injection of Izervay in my right eye…and a week ago in my left eye….this is the part that shocked my Dr. when I went back for the 1st shot in my right eye (after already having 2 in the left eye) she dilated both eyes….when she did the routine check of my left eye which already had 2 shots she said…The injection is only suppose to keep your AMD from going from Dry to Wet…..then he said….”Your left eye after only 2 injections is showing improvement….she was shocked….then said “well maybe we are on to something..but that is odd…said “I only have 1 other patient that showed imp;rovement after the injections……..so maybe there is hope for all of us with dry…who knows….
that is very good to hear. I'm pleased for you. By the way, you're not the first to mention this improvement. I hope things continue to go well for you. Wendy, Patient Leader.
