September 16, Dr. Kooragayala - eyes

Mom visited Dr. K today re: her dry and wet macular degeneration. The doctor shows that she has "leaky" type wet AMD (age-related MD). He was going to give her a shot in the eye which in 95% of the cases stops the leak and in 50% of of those 95% improves vision. There are some potential side effects none of which bothered Mom until the word Stroke came up. We were going to have this shot and were prepared but called the doctor back. We asked how often does this stroke thing happen. He said that research on the drug (name will come later) does not bear it out that stroke happens as a result of this medice HOWEVER, given mother's age you can't rule it out. Well, that was enough so Mom and I were going to call a family gathering to discuss the subject. NOT

Mom has made up her mind. Here I paraphrase: She has made it to 92 and didn't think she had an eye problem until she went in to see the eye doctor for new glasses. She prefers blind to stroke and its unpleasant possibilities. Presently her right eye - unbeknownst to her has taken over for the sight limitations of her left eye.

I am going to check up to see if blind means blackness or only light coming in the periphery or what "blind" means. Also, I will check to see if this situation can be monitored every quarter with new photo's of the macula to see how things are going. Also, I will check to see if one goes blind instantly or gradually.

There are two other treatments: another kind of shot which is less effective - the shots go into the eye.... and laser which is used with the shot. Without the shot it isn't as effective or effective at all without the shot.