Age-related Macular degeneration (AMD) is a deterioration or breakdown of the macula, which is the small central area of the retina that produces clear central vision. There are two types of macular degeneration: wet and dry. This blog will discuss the differences between these two types of AMD. But before we understand the difference, we need to know the meaning, signs, and symptoms of AMD.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration (MD) is a general term that describes a group of eye diseases. It is a deterioration or breakdown of the macula, which is the small central area of the retina that produces clear central vision. The macula is responsible for our ability to see fine details clearly and to read, drive, recognize faces, and perform other activities that require good vision.
AMD causes gradual loss of our central vision and can lead to blindness. However, since we still have our peripheral (side) vision, most people with AMD never become totally blind.
What are the signs and symptoms of AMD?
The signs and symptoms of AMD can include:
- blurry vision or a decrease in vision clarity
- difficulty seeing details, such as small print or fine lines
- a need for more light when reading or doing other activities that require good vision
- colours appearing less bright
- distorted vision, especially straight lines appearing wavy
What is the difference between dry and wet AMD?
Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Dry AMD is the most common type of macular degeneration. It happens when the cells in the macula slowly break down, usually due to a build-up of waste products called drusen. Drusen are small yellow deposits under the retina. They are a normal part of ageing, but people with dry AMD usually have more drusen than others.
As dry AMD gets worse, these waste products build up and form clumps called drusen. These clumps can damage the cells in the macula and cause vision loss. Dry AMD typically affects both eyes, but vision loss may be worse in one eye than the other.
Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Wet AMD is a more serious form of macular degeneration. It happens when new blood vessels grow under the retina and leak blood and fluid. The leakage from these blood vessels can damage the macula and cause vision loss. Wet AMD typically affects one eye at a time, but it can develop in both eyes.
Even if you do not have any symptoms, you should get regular eye exams. Early detection and treatment are important to help preserve vision.
If you have any of these signs or symptoms, make an appointment with your eye doctor or healthcare provider right away. They can perform tests to check for macular degeneration.
Treatment for Macular Degeneration
There is currently no cure for macular degeneration. However, there are treatments that can help slow down the progression of the disease and preserve vision.
If you have dry AMD, your doctor may recommend:
- taking vitamin and mineral supplements, such as vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene
- eating a healthy diet that includes dark, leafy green vegetables and fish
- stopping smoking
- wearing sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light
- To combat dry eyes, you can also use products like - Dry AMD Bundle
If you have wet AMD, your doctor may recommend:
- taking medication injections directly into the eye
- having laser procedures done in your eye
- healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising, and not smoking
Again, even if you do not have any symptoms, you should get regular eye exams. Early detection and treatment are important to help preserve vision. Get in touch with your doctor before using any products to help with Macular Degeneration.