Understanding Macular Degeneration: Dry vs. Wet AMD
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most common causes of vision loss in older adults, affecting nearly 20 million people nationwide. AMD is a retinal condition that damages the macula, a small but critical part of the retina that controls sharp, detailed, central vision. Peripheral vision typically remains intact, but changes in the macula can make everyday visual tasks increasingly difficult. There are two forms of AMD: dry AMD, which is more common, and wet AMD, which is less common but more severe. Though both involve damage to the macula, they call for different approaches to treatment and monitoring.
What is Dry AMD?
Dry AMD accounts for nearly 90% of all AMD cases. It develops when tiny yellow protein deposits called drusen accumulate beneath the macula, gradually causing the tissue to thin and break down over time. Vision loss with dry AMD tends to be slow and progressive, often without obvious symptoms in the early stages. While most retain some central vision, in some cases, dry AMD can advance to geographic atrophy or transition into wet AMD, both of which pose a greater risk of significant vision loss.
What is Wet AMD?
Wet AMD is less common but significantly more serious. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and begin to leak blood or fluid, leading to scarring of the macula. Unlike dry AMD, which presents slowly, wet AMD can cause vision changes rapidly and is considered a medical emergency that requires prompt attention.
Symptoms of Dry and Wet AMD
While early dry AMD may be symptom-free, both forms can eventually produce similar warning signs, such as:
- Blurry central vision
- Distorted vision, such as straight lines appearing wavy or bent
- Blank or dark spots in the center of your visual field
- Increased difficulty seeing in dim lighting
The key difference is that symptoms of dry AMD develop gradually, while those of wet AMD appear more suddenly. Either way, any noticeable change in central vision should be evaluated as soon as possible.
Treatment Options for Dry and Wet AMD
There is currently no cure for AMD, but treatment options exist that can slow its progression and help preserve remaining vision
For early stages of dry AMD, management often focuses on regular monitoring and reducing the risk of progression. Depending on your situation, your provider may recommend getting an eye exam every 6-12 months and suggest eye supplements known as AREDS, which include key nutrients shown to help slow disease progression. For those with more advanced forms of dry AMD such as geographic atrophy, injectable medications known as Syfovre and Izervay are newly available treatment options.
For wet AMD, treatment is more immediate and targeted. The most common approach involves anti-VEGF medications, which are delivered through injections into the eye. These medications help reduce the growth and leakage of abnormal blood vessels. In some situations, laser-based treatments such as photodynamic therapy may also be used.
Staying Ahead of AMD
Because AMD, especially in its early stages, can progress without obvious symptoms, regular eye exams are one of the most important tools for catching it early. A retinal specialist can detect signs of dry and wet AMD before significant vision loss occurs, giving you the best chance of slowing its progression. Since AMD becomes more common with age, adults over 50 should consider prioritizing yearly retinal evaluations.
At Retina Consultants, PLLC, our fellowship-trained retina specialists have been providing expert care for vitreoretinal conditions, including dry and wet AMD, since 1988. With four convenient locations across West Virginia and access to the latest diagnostic technology and treatment options, we're here to help you protect your vision at every stage. If you've noticed changes in your central vision or are due for a retinal evaluation, we encourage you to reach out and schedule an appointment today.
