MACULAR
DEGENERATION:
DRY VS. WET
D.M. DEUPREE, MD
Central vision loss can be serious—
even leading to blindness. Learn about
the signs, diagnosis and treatment
options for dry and wet AMD.
Age related macular degeneration
(AMD) is an eye disease that results
in damage to the macula—
the part of the retina responsible for
sharp, central vision. A leading cause
of vision loss in Americans over 65,
AMD’s symptoms can range from
unnoticeable to legal blindness.
“We’ve always labeled AMD with
two general classifications: ‘dry’
and ‘wet,’” said D. M. Deupree, MD,
FACS, a board-certified ophthalmologist,
vitreo-retina specialist and
surgeon in Clearwater.
DRY AMD
Dry AMD occurs when the macula’s
light-sensitive cells slowly break
down, gradually blurring central vision
in the affected eye. As dry AMD
worsens, you may see a blurry spot
in the center of your vision, making
it difficult to recognize faces or write
a check. When less of the macula is
able to function over time, central
vision in the affected eye can be lost.
WET AMD
Wet AMD, which is considered
more advanced and severe than the
dry form, happens when abnormal
blood vessels behind the retina
begin to grow under the macula.
These fragile new blood vessels
often leak blood and fluid, which
raise and distort the macula from its
normal position at the back of the
eye.
Central vision loss can happen
swiftly with wet AMD. Early symptoms
of wet AMD include straight
lines appearing wavy. If you notice
this condition or other changes to
your vision, it’s imperative to contact
an eye-care professional promptly;
you will need a comprehensive
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