Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50. It affects the macula, a small, central part of the retina responsible for detailed, straight-ahead vision.
There are two main types of AMD: dry AMD and wet AMD. While they may sound similar, they differ significantly in terms of cause, symptoms, progression, and treatment. Understanding the differences is key to recognising symptoms early and seeking the right care.
We explore the key differences between the two below.
What Is Dry AMD?
Dry AMD is the most common form of AMD, accounting for between 85 and 90% of all the AMD cases diagnosed. It is usually milder than wet AMD, and has symptoms that include:
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Straight lines appearing crooked.
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Blank spots in your central vision.
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Difficulty seeing in low light.
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Difficulty recognising faces.
Dry AMD is caused by a buildup of waste deposits, called drusen. Drusen contains waste products and lipids, and prevents the macula (a part of the eye responsible for central vision) from being able to generate a visual signal.
What Is Wet AMD?
Wet AMD is an advanced form of dry AMD - in around 10% of dry AMD cases, it can develop into wet AMD.
In wet AMD, irregular blood vessels develop under the macula, which then leak fluid and reduce vision. Over time, scarring can build up from the blood vessels healing over, which can impair vision further.
Vision loss occurs much faster in wet AMD than it does in dry AMD. While your peripheral vision may remain good, your central vision may be affected dramatically. Further symptoms of wet AMD can include:
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Loss of fine details, both up close and far away.
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Light sensitivity.
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Dark or grey areas in your central vision.
Preventing AMD
Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent either wet or dry AMD from developing, there are steps you can take to mitigate your risk of either condition developing.
Avoid (Or Quit) Smoking
Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing macular degeneration. Smoking release dangerous free radicals into the body which can cause cellular damage, including to the macula.
Maintain A Healthy Lifestyle
Obesity is linked to increased risk of macular degeneration, so try to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle to mitigate the risks.
Maintaining a healthy diet is also a good way to help prevent AMD. Healthy foods such as leafy green vegetables and fatty fish provide a good source of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which may help protect against AMD.
Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Age-related macular degeneration can be challenging to spot in it’s early stages. Regular eye examinations can help your optician spot any early signs so you can address them before they become serious.
Manage Blood Pressure
Poor blood circulation can restrict essential blood flow to the eyes, which can contribute to macular degeneration.
AMD Treatment
While there is no way that age-related macular degeneration can be stopped completely, treatment is available to help slow the progress and preserve eyesight.
Here at Dry AMD Clinic, we utilise photobiomodulation (PBM), an extensively researched and evidence-based treatment that is proven to help slow AMD. Each session involves yellow light therapy and red light therapy, which work together to combat oxidative stress and boost the production of nitric oxide, which improves oxygen delivery to the cells in the eye.
The anti-inflammatory effects of PBM treatment helps to stimulate cell repair, preserving eye health and combatting drusen accumulation.
The Dry AMD Clinic Difference
Dry AMD Clinic are leading the way for age-related macular degeneration treatment in the UK. With an exceptional team made up of leading experts in dry eye management, our PBM treatment is proven to help manage dry AMD and preserve vision, so you can carry on doing more of what you love.
Don’t wait for your vision to deteriorate. Book your initial consultation with Dry AMD Clinic today and take the first step towards protecting your sight.
Call us or book online to find out how our innovative treatments can help you preserve the freedom that comes with clear vision.