About this procedure
Intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy is used for certain retinal and macular diseases in which abnormal blood vessels or fluid leakage threaten vision. An ophthalmologist confirms the diagnosis and indications before treatment.
What you should know
Anti-VEGF medicines act on vascular growth-factor signalling and can reduce abnormal vessel leakage. They may be considered for selected cases of diabetic macular oedema, neovascular age-related macular degeneration and some other retinal disorders.
Symptoms and reasons for assessment
Distorted straight lines, reduced central vision, a dark central spot or increasing difficulty reading may lead to assessment. Symptoms alone do not determine whether an injection is useful; the retinal findings and exact diagnosis matter.
Other possible explanations
Anti-VEGF injections are not a universal way to restore vision from cataracts, glaucoma or all types of blurring. Macular oedema, scarring, haemorrhage and other conditions require different approaches.
How the condition is assessed
The ophthalmologist checks visual acuity and examines the retina, with macular OCT and other tests as indicated. Before therapy, possible contraindications, other illnesses, the sterile procedure and the proposed monitoring schedule are discussed.
Treatment and follow-up options
The medicine is injected into the vitreous under aseptic conditions with local anaesthesia. Treatment schedules vary and may require repeated injections and OCT scans. Results are individual; full recovery of vision cannot be guaranteed.
When urgent care is needed
Increasing pain, pronounced redness or worsening vision after an injection can signal a serious complication, including infection. Seek immediate eye assessment, not the next routine appointment. Call 103 if the situation is life-threatening.
Related health information
Diabetic retinopathy; Diseases of the retina and macula; Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the eye.
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis and tests
Care and treatment approaches
When to seek urgent care
Frequently asked questions
Is a single injection enough?
Not always. Many retinal conditions require a course of injections and repeat OCT or visual acuity checks.
Does everyone with diabetes need anti-VEGF treatment?
No. Diabetes alone is not an indication; the retinal and macular changes must be assessed.
What if eye pain and vision loss develop after injection?
Seek urgent ophthalmic evaluation because these symptoms may indicate a serious complication.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
