Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration Treatment

Macular degeneration is damage or breakdown of the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for central vision. When the macula doesn’t function correctly, we experience blurriness or darkness in the center of our vision. Macular degeneration affects both distance and close vision.

Dr. Bergstrom can perform laser surgery, prescribe optical devices or refer you to a low-vision specialist to help fight this disease.

‍

The Valeda® Light Delivery System is now available at Bergstrom Eye and Laser Clinic – First in the Midwest! The Valeda Light Delivery System is the first and only FDA-cleared photobiomodulation device for the treatment of dry AMD, a condition affecting millions of Americans with limited treatment options. Valeda uses multi-wavelength light therapy to stimulate cellular energy production and reduce inflammation in retinal tissues. It’s completely non-invasive, painless, and takes only a few minutes per session. The Science Behind PBM Therapy Photobiomodulation (PBM) delivers specific wavelengths of light—590nm, 660nm, and 850nm—into retinal cells. These wavelengths: - Stimulate mitochondria by enhancing ATP production - Reduce oxidative stress by minimizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) - Improve retinal microcirculation for better nutrient exchange - Provide anti-inflammatory effects via cytokine modulation. The ideal patient for Valeda PBM therapy: - Has intermediate or early-stage dry AMD - Is experiencing visual decline without geographic atrophy or wet AMD - Desires a non-invasive, drug-free option. Patients typically undergo treatment 3 times per week for 3–4 weeks, with optional boosters every 6–12 months. Patients have shown - Improved visual function (contrast sensitivity, reading speed) - Stabilization or improvement in visual acuity - High patient satisfaction with this quick, comfortable procedure. As the first provider of Valeda PBM therapy in the region, Bergstrom Eye and Laser Clinic is leading the way in offering research-based, emerging technologies for patients in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and beyond. We welcome referrals from ophthalmologists, optometrists, and primary care providers. Patients may also contact us directly. At Bergstrom Eye and Laser Clinic, we believe in bringing the future of vision care to our patients today. We are excited to offer hope, innovation, and world-class treatment right here in the heart of the Midwest.

Contact Us: Bergstrom Eye and Laser Clinic, Fargo, ND (701) 478-4191 erin@bergstromeye.com

‍

Macular Degeneration Symptoms May Include:

• Blurriness
• Holes in the center of vision
• Straight lines appear wavy
• Trouble seeing details both up close and at a distance
• Difficulty telling colors apart, especially ones close in hue
• Vision can be slow to come back after bright light exposure

‍

The Disease Exists in Two Forms, Dry and Wet.

Dry macular degeneration is by far the most common form of macular degeneration(roughly 90% of all cases). However, it is the milder of the two forms, develops gradually, and usually leads to only minor vision loss. Dry macular degeneration tends to occur when yellow fatty particles called drusen accumulate in the retina underneath the macula. This build-up results in thinning and drying-out of the macular cells.

Wet macular degeneration is less common, but the vast majority of severe vision loss cases result from this form. First, abnormal blood vessels form underneath the surface of the retina. Leakage of blood and other fluids from these blood vessels permanently damage the exterior cells (which detect incoming light). As these cells are damaged, vision is lost. The primary cause of macular degeneration remains unknown. Macular degeneration typically occurs more frequently in the aging population with patients over 60. Research has shown there are many other factors such as family history, smoking, hypertension, obesity, and/or high cholesterol, high-fat diet that may contribute towards the development of macular degeneration.

‍

Treatment for Dry Macular Degeneration

Valeda treatment, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, is a non-invasive treatment for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity in the retina, particularly the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), to improve cell function and potentially slow the progression of AMD. Bergstrom Eye is the first in the Midwest to offer this new cutting edge treatment. Contact us today to learn more at 701-478-4191 or erin@bergstromeye.com.

‍

Treatments We Offer for Wet Macular Degeneration

Anti-VEGF drugs such as Avastin and Eylea: This treatment has literally revolutionized our treatment of wet macular degeneration in recent years. These inhibit proteins which contribute to abnormal blood vessel growth. They are known as anti-VEGF (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor) drugs. There are a variety of drugs that can be applicable for this purpose, some FDA approved, and some off-label (officially approved for a different application). For many patients, these are miracle treatments that allow recovery of vision if done early in the disease process. Dr. Bergstrom has been injecting medication to help prevent vision loss for over 25 years.

Other pharmaceutical treatments: For example, angiostatic treatments, which combat blood vessel growth with steroid injections.

‍