Wet AMD is more serious but also more treatable and far less common. Wet AMD causes new, defective blood vessels to grow beneath the retina where they eventually leak and bleed. Scar tissue often forms. Wet AMD causes a more rapid loss of vision, sometimes leading to blindness within weeks. This requires the intervention by an experienced ophthalmologist.
Dry AMD is more widespread and more difficult to treat. In dry AMD, the layers of cells beneath the retina in the macula stop functioning properly. People with dry macular degeneration often have holes or blank areas in their central vision that can worsen over time.
No matter which form of macular degeneration you have, it is important to be seen by a doctor as soon as possible to preserve vision.
Symptoms
- Distorted or wavy lines
- Missing letters or parts of letters and pictures
- Decreased clarity at both distance and near
- Feeling like tilting or moving your head improves your vision
A special chart, called an Amsler Grid often detect the areas of central distortion
At your comprehensive eye exam, through a dilated pupil, a careful inspection of the macular region of your retina will be done by the doctor
Should any abnormalities be found an Ocular Coherence Tomography and a Fluorescein Angiography will be ordered. These are both done in our office.
Treatment
Wet AMD can be managed with medication, laser, or a combination of both modalities.
Dry macular degeneration does not have a cure, but vitamin supplementation can help to slow its progression. Our doctors can help you monitor for progression as well as keep you current on new treatments as they become available. We have the highest quality, specially formulated vitamins available in our office.