Wet vs. Dry Macular Degeneration: Understanding the Differences
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of permanent vision loss in older adults. AMD affects the retina, the thin, photosensitive tissue layer on the back of the eye wall. There are two types of AMD: wet and dry. While these two types have some similarities, there are distinct differences that are important to be mindful of.
What You Need to Know About Dry AMD
Dry AMD is more common than its wet counterpart, accounting for 85-90% of all AMD cases. For the most part, dry AMD is less visually debilitating than wet AMD, and it doesn’t involve the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Symptoms of dry AMD include:
- Visual distortions
- Reduced central vision
- Increased difficulty adapting to low light levels
- Increased blurriness of printed words
- Difficulty recognizing faces
- A blurry or blind spot in the field of vision
Some cases of dry AMD may develop into wet AMD. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow and even prevent vision loss.
Wet AMD Features and Impacts
In wet AMD, atypical blood vessels form around the macula, which is the center part of the retina. These vessels can leak proteins or lipids and also cause scarring. If left untreated, wet AMD can cause significant and permanent vision loss. Treatment can help reduce vision loss but may not be able to prevent it entirely.
Who Is at Risk for AMD?
Most people don’t realize they have either type of AMD until their vision becomes significantly blurry. Therefore, it’s important to keep up with regular eye appointments to catch the condition as early as possible. You’re more likely to develop AMD if you:
- Are over the age of 50
- Have a family history of AMD
- Experience high blood pressure
- Are overweight
- Eat a diet high in saturated fat
- Smoke cigarettes
AMD Treatment Options
Treatment for AMD depends on the type and severity. If you have intermediate dry AMD, dietary supplements (vitamins and minerals) may be able to stop it from progressing into late-stage AMD. If you have late AMD in only one eye, these supplements may slow down the condition in your other eye. Patients with wet AMD may receive eye injections or laser therapy to stop abnormal blood vessel growth and prevent further vision loss.
Speak with a Retina Specialist Today
Dry and wet age-related macular degeneration can both cause significant and permanent vision loss. Wet AMD is the more severe type of the condition and vision loss can progress quickly. One way to protect your vision is to see a retina specialist regularly. The Retina Eye Center is the practice of choice in the Central Savannah River Area, serving patients in Aiken, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our retina specialists.