What Is Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet ARMD)?
Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet ARMD) is a less common but more severe form of macular degeneration that affects the central part of the retina, called the macula. The macula is responsible for sharp, detailed vision, and damage to it can lead to significant vision loss.
Wet ARMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina in a process called choroidal neovascularization. These fragile blood vessels can leak fluid or blood, causing rapid damage to the macula and leading to distorted vision or blind spots.
Symptoms of Wet ARMD
Unlike Dry ARMD, which progresses slowly, Wet ARMD can cause sudden and severe changes in vision. Symptoms include:
- Distorted vision: Straight lines may appear wavy or bent.
- Central vision loss: A dark or blurry spot may appear in the center of your vision.
- Reduced color brightness: Colors may seem dull or washed out.
- Difficulty recognizing faces or reading: Loss of detailed vision impacts daily tasks.
What Causes Wet ARMD?
Wet ARMD often develops from the dry form of the disease. Factors that increase the risk of Wet ARMD include:
- Age: Most common in people over 60.
- Family history: Genetic predisposition plays a role.
- Lifestyle: Smoking and poor nutrition increase risk.
- Underlying health conditions: High blood pressure and cardiovascular issues can contribute.
How Is Wet ARMD Treated?
Although Wet ARMD cannot be cured, treatments can slow its progression and preserve vision. Common options include:
- Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications like ranibizumab (Lucentis) or aflibercept (Eylea) are injected into the eye to block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that promotes abnormal blood vessel growth.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Combines light-activated drugs with laser treatment to target abnormal blood vessels while sparing healthy tissue.
- Laser Therapy: Used in some cases to seal leaking blood vessels.
Conclusion
Wet ARMD is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent rapid vision loss. If you notice sudden changes in your vision, such as wavy lines or blind spots, seek immediate care from an eye specialist. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection, especially for those at higher risk. Protect your vision by staying proactive about your eye health!