Age‑related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of sight loss in those over 50. Often, people wonder about the difference between wet and dry AMD, in particular, whether dry AMD can become wet AMD. This post explores what each form is, explains how they differ, and answers that very question.
Understanding the Difference Between Wet and Dry AMD
Dry AMD, also known as non‑exudative or atrophic AMD, accounts for approximately 85–90% of all cases. It develops gradually over years and is characterised by the build-up of drusen, small yellow deposits of lipids and protein beneath the retina. These deposits impair the macula’s ability to capture light, leading to slow central vision loss, fuzzy vision, blank spots, and difficulty with low light or colour perception.
In contrast, wet macular degeneration (also called neovascular or exudative AMD) is the more aggressive form. It develops when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and start to leak blood or fluid. This leakage leads to rapid and severe central vision loss. While rarer - making up only around 10–15% of AMD cases - it can be more devastating if untreated .
Can Dry AMD Progress to Wet AMD?
Yes, dry AMD can progress to wet macular degeneration. All cases of wet AMD first begin as dry AMD - however, this does not always mean that dry AMD will progress into wet AMD.
Only around 10–20% of those with dry macular degeneration will develop wet AMD in one or both eyes. This progression marks the change from slow‑moving degeneration due to drusen, to aggressive neovascularisation where abnormal blood vessels grow and leak into the macula.
Certain risk factors, such as large drusen, genetic predisposition, smoking, and cardiovascular health, can increase the chance of wet AMD developing.
What Increases the Risk of Developing Wet Macular Degeneration?
While wet AMD can only develop in individuals who already have dry macular degeneration, not everyone with dry AMD will go on to develop the wet form. Understanding the risk factors can help you take preventative steps and monitor your central vision more closely.
Key risk factors include:
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Age: The risk of both dry and wet AMD increases significantly after the age of 60.
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Genetics: A family history of AMD raises your risk. Certain genetic markers, such as variants in the CFH and ARMS2 genes, have been associated with disease progression.
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Smoking: This is the most well-established modifiable risk factor. Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop AMD compared to non-smokers.
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High Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Disease: Poor circulation can contribute to damage in the delicate blood vessels of the retina.
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Obesity and Poor Diet: Diets low in antioxidants, leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids can speed up retinal degeneration.
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Sunlight Exposure: Long-term unprotected exposure to UV light may increase the risk of retinal damage.
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Advanced Dry AMD: The more severe your dry AMD, particularly with large drusen or areas of geographic atrophy, the higher the likelihood of developing wet AMD.
Why the Distinction Matters
Understanding the difference between wet and dry AMD is key to timely intervention:
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Dry AMD progresses slowly, often over several years. Treatments focus on lifestyle, supplements, protective eyewear, monitoring (like Amsler grid testing), and newer therapies such as photobiomodulation at DryAMD Clinic.
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Wet AMD is urgent; if vision changes occur suddenly (e.g., straight lines look wavy, new dark patches appear, blurry central vision sets in quickly), immediate assessment is vital.
Early detection of wet AMD, especially if it follows dry AMD, gives the best chance of preserving central vision for as long as possible.
Monitoring and Managing Dry AMD to Prevent Progression
Even though wet macular degeneration only develops in a minority, those with dry forms, especially intermediate or late phases should take proactive steps to manage vision loss:
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Regular eye examinations: OCT (optical coherence tomography) scans and dilated exams can spot changes early.
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Home monitoring: The Amsler grid helps detect distortions signalling wet AMD.
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Lifestyle modifications:
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Quit smoking
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Maintain healthy weight and manage hypertension or cholesterol.
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Wear protective sunglasses
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Eat leafy greens, antioxidants, fatty fish
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Emerging treatments: Photobiomodulation (PBM), offered by DryAMD Clinic, uses red and yellow light to stimulate cell repair, reduce drusen build‑up, curb oxidative stress, and may inhibit factors that encourage wet AMD
Cutting Edge AMD Treatment With Dry AMD Clinic
If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with dry AMD, it's important to stay informed, proactive and consistent with care. While not all cases progress to wet AMD, the potential risk highlights the importance of early detection and regular monitoring. Understanding the difference between wet and dry AMD helps you act swiftly if any symptoms change.
By attending regular eye exams, using home tools like the Amsler grid, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and exploring evidence‑based treatments such as photobiomodulation, you can help preserve your vision and reduce the risk of progression.
Our team of leading opticians have been involved in leading clinical trials for dry AMD treatment, and are passionate about helping everyone preserve their vision for as long as possible. Don't wait for symptoms to worsen. Book an appointment at Dry AMD Clinic today and take control of your eye health with expert guidance and cutting‑edge treatment.