Differences Between Wet and Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can cause you to lose at least part of your vision. However, the severity and treatment options depend on what kind of AMD you have. Both types of AMD affect your central vision and shouldn't be ignored. Here is more information about the difference between wet and dry AMD and what you can do to keep the condition from worsening.
What Is Dry AMD?
Dry AMD is very common. The majority of people with AMD have this type. Dry AMD occurs when your macula (the part of the eye responsible for your central vision) thins. This process happens when cellular waste, called drusen, builds up in the back of your eye. Over time, the drusen can cause your retina to deteriorate.
Many older people have some drusen build-up. You will likely notice nothing except a change in your ability to see certain colours. Dry AMD often takes years before it's noticeable or becomes a problem. Genetics and lifestyle factors like smoking put you at higher risk.
How Is Dry AMD Treated?
Currently, no standard treatment exists for dry AMD, though several experimental treatments are in the works. However, many doctors may prescribe treatments such as vitamin therapy. Lifestyle changes could also help reduce the speed of vision loss.
What Is Wet AMD?
Wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessel growth in the back of the eye. These blood vessels are often very weak and leak. The leaks can cause retinal problems and vision loss. Wet AMD is often considered an advanced form of AMD. Many people start with dry AMD. If not detected early, the dry AMD can turn into wet AMD.
How Is Wet AMD Treated?
Like dry AMD, there's no cure for wet AMD. However, some treatments are available for this condition. One current treatment for wet AMD is direct injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor into the affected eye or eyes. These injections slow down the growth of new blood vessels. Other treatments may involve lasers. However, these are most effective if your condition is caught early.
To catch all forms of AMD at their earliest stage, make sure you have your retinas checked regularly. A doctor can do this with routine dilation or digital imaging. Often, these tests detect a problem long before you notice anything. If you have AMD, see a doctor who specialises in AMD and other age-related eye problems. Catching it before you have noticeable difficulties could make a difference in preserving your eyesight for as long as possible.