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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Smoking Affects Treatment For Macular Degeneration?

Hello and thank you in advance. My question is a dear friend of mine has been told he has wet age-related macular degeneration, and was treated with his first injection of Lucentis. His doctor has told him that he needs to stop smoking. Of course my friend has not done that as of yet. He doesn't think that it will effect his eye treatment. What can I do to convince him that it does effect the treatment?
Thank you,

Patty Howard
Thu, 13 Feb 2014
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.

I appreciate your concern for your friend. You are quite right in thinking that smoking would affect the treatment and recovery process of his eye condition. Smoking not only interferes with the effective action of the medication, but also can delay healing and recovery.

I would suggest that you explain this in a non-confrontational way to him so that he understands the potential negative implications of his smoking. There are also talking therapies and medication available to help a person quit smoking. So, you can also suggest seeing a psychiatrist for further help.

Wish you all the best.

Regards,
Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist
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Does Smoking Affects Treatment For Macular Degeneration?

Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query. I appreciate your concern for your friend. You are quite right in thinking that smoking would affect the treatment and recovery process of his eye condition. Smoking not only interferes with the effective action of the medication, but also can delay healing and recovery. I would suggest that you explain this in a non-confrontational way to him so that he understands the potential negative implications of his smoking. There are also talking therapies and medication available to help a person quit smoking. So, you can also suggest seeing a psychiatrist for further help. Wish you all the best. Regards, Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist