What Is Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Around 19 million people over the age of 40 have age-related macular degeneration (AMD), but not everyone understands the intricacies of the disease. There are two distinct types of AMD, dry and wet. Below, we’ll look at how the wet version affects people and how you can treat it.

Dry vs. Wet

Both types of AMD cause a person to lose their vision over time. The most common form of macular degeneration in Jesup, GA is known as dry AMD, because it occurs when the macula, a small spot in the center of the retina, starts to thin away. The thinner it gets, the harder it is for people to see.

Wet age-related macular degeneration is rarer, and it’s also more aggressive. This occurs when your blood vessels start to grow, which can then leak fluid and blood around the macula. This buildup of fluids can also lead to vision loss.

What Are the Symptoms of Wet AMD?

If you’re seeing dark spots or the shapes of objects seem to change at will, you may be experiencing wet AMD. AMD affects your center vision, so if you’re having trouble seeing straight ahead from one or both eyes, it’s probably time to call an eye doctor in Jesup, GA.

Can an Optometrist Treat AMD?

Both optometrists and ophthalmologists can diagnose and treat AMD, though only ophthalmologists will be able to administer surgery if you need it. Typically, the standard recommendation is either injections to prevent the vessels from leaking or lasers to seal off the vessels.

Early Detection in Jesup

Early detection is a great way to avoid the worst of AMD, eventually leading to permanent blindness. The faster an eye doctor pinpoints what type of AMD you have, the easier it will be for them to take smarter precautions. If you’re looking for a team with enough experience in this rarer type of eye disease, particularly if you have a family history, high cholesterol, or cardiovascular disease, contact the team at Vision Source Family Eye Care to schedule a checkup.