Macular degeneration is one of the most common causes of vision loss in adults over age 50. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is caused by a deterioration in the macula, which is the retina’s central portion that allows you to see fine details clearly. As a result of this deterioration, patients might start to lose their capacity to distinguish between faces and close-up objects, thus affecting their ability to read or drive. AMD can present itself in two forms – wet and dry.

Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Wet AMD is when the macula’s ability to function is hindered by new blood vessels growing underneath the retina. These abnormal blood vessels can leak blood or other fluids, distorting your vision and potentially scarring your macula. Of the two forms, wet AMD is rarer and most urgent as it can quickly lead to irreversible vision loss if left untreated.

Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Dry AMD is the more common form of macular degeneration. With this form, the macula thins, and yellow deposits of protein called drusen begin to accumulate, grow in size, and spread throughout the macula. The onset of blurriness and vision loss is more gradual than with wet AMD; however,  it can turn into wet AMD in approximately 10% of cases.

Over time, both the wet and dry forms of macular degeneration often cause vision loss. If you are experiencing symptoms related to AMD, schedule a consultation with our retinal specialists today.