Macular Degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in Canadians. It is a disease that affects the macula, the part of our retina that does all our detailed & central vision. The cells in the macula do not function as well as they used to leading to an accumulation of cellular debris also known as Drusen. These Drusen can cause straight lines to appear wavy (metamorphopsia) and your central vision to become blurry. The best way to monitor and diagnose macular degeneration is with an OCT scan (Optical Coherence Tomography).
There are two different types of Macular Degeneration – Dry & Wet. Dry Macular Degeneration is the more common and less severe form of the disease. It was previously only managed with vitamins and regular eye exams but now there are treatments available – MacuMira & Arunalight. Vitamin supplementation of Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and Mesozeaxanthin is still recommended in conjunction with the newer treatment options. Wet Macular Degeneration is the less common but more severe form of the disease where blood leaks into the retina. This form of the disease is managed with regular injections in the eye by an Ophthalmologist.
MacuMira
MacuMira is a non-invasive, Health Canada–approved medical device designed to help maintain or even improve visual function in patients with Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD). During in-clinic sessions, MacuMira delivers a gentle microcurrent through closed eyelids. This microcurrent is intended to support retinal cell health and function, including cellular and mitochondrial activity, which can be affected in Dry AMD.
While individual results may vary, patients using MacuMira have reported benefits such as:
- Improved visual function for daily activities
- Enhanced contrast sensitivity, especially in low-light conditions
- Increased confidence with tasks affected by central vision changes
- Improved colour differentiation
- Decreased metamorphopsia (wavy appearance of straight lines)
Our goal in offering MacuMira is to help patients maintain and, in some cases, restore aspects of their vision, rather than simply waiting for the condition to progress. MacuMira may be an option worth exploring if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Dry AMD and are interested in learning more about additional treatment approaches. Our team would be happy to answer your questions and help determine whether MacuMira could be helpful for you.
Arunalight
The Arunalight is a wearable Photobiomodulation device designed to help people with Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, and other retinal disorders. Photobiomodulation, also known as low level light therapy, has been shown to help healing, increase blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and help protect delicate and vulnerable retinal cells from damage. Using the device just a few minutes every other day with your eyes closed, it helps support healthy retinal cells, improve eye comfort, and promote overall ocular wellness. It’s non-invasive, easy to use at home, and backed by research and Health Canada approval. Contact us to learn more information about Arunalight and how it may help your eyes!
