Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age Related Macular Degeneration, also known as ARMD or AMD, is an age related eye condition which gradually results in diminished central vision. The risk factors for this condition are age over 60, female gender, a positive family history, faulty diet (reduced intake of omega fatty acids and dark green vegetables) , excessive exposure to the sun, smoking, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and obesity.

AMD is of two types, wet and dry. Dry AMD is more common, and nearly 80-85% patients have this type of AMD.  In this type, the macula gradually gets thinner, and toxic deposits cause tiny clumps of protein known as drusen. There is a gradual and slow loss of central vision, which usually occurs in both eyes. Dietary supplements may help reduce or stabilize this condition.

The wet type of AMD is present in only about 15 % of affected individuals; however, this type is more serious and is responsible for nearly 80% of vision loss occurring from this condition. New, abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina; these cause leakage of blood and fluid, eventually leading to scarring of the macula. This type of vision loss may be faster- often occurring in a few days to a few weeks- and more extensive. Vision loss typically affects one eye. Treatment includes dietary supplementation, injection of antivascular endothelial growth factor drugs, laser photocoagulation, photodynamic therapy, and use of low vision devices.

Dry AMD can be treated with Ayurvedic medicines using the Rasayan (rejuvenating) herbs. Use of Triphala and Mahatriphala Ghrut is beneficial, as well as the prolonged use of Netra Tarpan procedure. Medicines which help remove toxic deposits and strengthen the retina are very useful, but need to be given for prolonged periods in order to get good benefit. Associated risk factors and concurrent medical conditions need to be treated in order to give the patient the full benefit of Ayurvedic treatment.  Treated in this way, most affected individuals can retain a decent vision for more than three decades.

For patients with the wet type of AMD, the use of leeches can avert sudden and drastic vision loss. Mild and repeated purgation helps in reducing fluid build up beneath the retina. Medicines can then be given to remove toxic collection from the eyes, as well as to help reduce the abnormal vessel growth and frequent leakages. Vision can be gradually restored fully or partially (depending upon the stage at which treatment has been commenced), and further loss of vision can be prevented.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment can thus be judiciously used to effectively treat both the dry and wet types of AMD.

An order once placed, cannot be cancelled. For exceptional circumstances (e.g. sudden death of patient), we need to get our medicines returned in good and usable condition, after which a refund will be effected after deducting 30 % administrative expenses. Return will be at the cost of the client. Capsules and powders do not qualify for a refund. Local courier charges, international shipping costs incurred, and documentation and handling charges also will not be refunded.Even in case of exceptional circumstances, a refund will be considered only within 10 days from delivery of the medicines. The decision taken by staff of Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic in this respect will be final and binding on all clients.

The treatment package includes shipping costs for domestic clients who are ordering within India. Shipping charges are extra for international clients. In addition, international clients will have to select a minimum of 2 months' order since this will be the most cost effective and practical option.

With a full course of treatment, most patients with early disease get complete relief ; patients with severe and advanced disease experience relief from symptoms and no further progression in disease. Such patients may require Ayurvedic panchkarma procedures for additional benfit.Early commencement of treatment is recommended to avoid permanent, irreversible damge. Patients who have taken treatment from us at a very advanced stage have stable vision even after more than 3 decades.