Recently Diagnosed with Wet Macular Degeneration

By Venice

1 min read

I’m 61 years old and was just diagnosed with wet AMD and had my 1st Avastin injection. I did a lot of reading & research online when I found out about my illness. I was devastated at first knowing that it is irreversible and later on a complete vision loss and the other eye might be affected also.

I’m glad that I found this group forum that gives me hope and being positive that I’m not the only that has this fear on what my future will be.

Thank you.

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Jessica.H Community Admin
<inline-mention username="Venice" user-id="8576512"/> I can understand the devastation that accompanies a new diagnosis. Many in our community can relate - you certainly are not alone. I'm SO glad you found our community and finding some hope here! If we can ever help locate any information or simply provide a listening ear, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are here for you. Kindly, Jessica, Team Member
Brown Eyed Girl Moderator
<inline-mention username="Venice" user-id="8576512"/> I hope you will find some comfort in the fact that many people don't lose all their sight. If treatment is continued, most people keep at least their peripheral vision. The injections are designed to dry up the fluid and prevent any further sight loss if possible. Some people in this community have actually had an improvement in their sight after the injections. There are quite a few anti-VEGF medications available today, and if one doesn't achieve the desired result, Retinal Specialists are often able to switch to another medication which might do the job better. My father had injections from about the age of 80 until age 97 and he retained quite functional sight. Warm wishes, Wendy, Patient Leader.
Barbara B Member
Venice, I was recently diagnosed also. Getting my second shot in one week. I am slowly moving out from the absolute panic stage to "I am going to fight this with shots, diet, exercise knowledge. These posts help so much. 
1. Brown Eyed Girl Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Barbara B" user-id="8580423"/> thanks for your encouraging remark and it's good to hear you're moving forward with your coping strategies. How did your second shot go? Wendy, Patient Leader. 
2. Barbara B Member
 First shot went as well as can be expected for a 'first shot.' In fact, it wasn 't as bad as I expected. The second shot was great. I learned that my eye went from 20/55 to 20/25 with just one shot We thought I would have to go to a stronger med once we satisfied the insurance requirement of 'step therapy". The picturs of my eye showed improvement and we were all pleased. I still have a constant "clench in my belly feeling" though. Working on redirecting my thoughts, rewiring my brain! Any hints?
Sharon Moore Moderator
<inline-mention username="Barbara B" user-id="8580423"/> i am glad your injections have produced good results in your vision. The anticipation causing that clench in your belly is understandable. I have panic disorder and get that same feeling. Focusing on my breathing helps me relieve my anxiety. I use a technique called box or square breathing. I hope you find a technique that helps you. Regards, Sharon Moore patient leader
Barbara B Member
<inline-mention username="Sharon Moore" user-id="3129425"/> Thank you for the suggestions. I'm going to look for both of those ideas! This; morning, however, being outside and weeding helps. Garden therapy! Have a wonderful day yourself, Sharon. 
1. Sharon Moore Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Barbara B" user-id="8580423"/> garden therapy or any activity outdoors chases away all my anxiety. Perhaps you could talk an imaginary walk through your garden while getting the injection. We are getting a much needed break from the heat and some rain today. Best, Sharon Moore patient leader