The Differences Between Dry and Wet Macular Degeneration

Have you or a loved one received a macular degeneration diagnosis? If so, you will find navigating this disease can be stressful, mainly because there are various types of this disease. The two most common are wet and dry macular degeneration. Comprehending how they differ from one another is crucial.

Macular degeneration can cause vision loss, especially in individuals over 50. Although both types affect the macula, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ. It would help to learn the differences between wet and dry macular degeneration.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

This condition affects the part of the eye that allows you to see fine details: the macula. As you age, the macula can become damaged and result in vision loss. The most common cause of visual loss in older people is macular degeneration.

Dry Macular Degeneration

Most macular degeneration patients have this type of macular degeneration. It stems from the thinning and aging of the macular tissues. Over time, small white or yellowish deposits, called drusen, can accumulate in the macula, leading to cell damage and vision loss.

Symptoms

Symptoms include the following:
 

• Blurred vision

• Difficulty recognizing faces

• The need for brighter light when reading or doing close work

The development of symptoms can be slow and may take years. There is currently no cure for dry macular degeneration, and treatment options are limited. A good diet, frequent exercise, and giving up smoking can all decrease its progression. Eye physicians occasionally advise taking specific vitamins and minerals in high doses.

Wet Macular Degeneration

Although less prevalent than dry macular degeneration, this form of MD can advance more quickly. Also, it can result in more severe symptoms. It stems from the development of aberrant blood vessels under the macula. They can leak blood and liquid, harming the macular tissues.

Symptoms

Among the symptoms are the following:
 

• Vision distortion

• The tendency for straight lines to look twisted or wavered

• Blind patches in the middle of the field of vision

The onset of symptoms can happen suddenly, and they can worsen over weeks or months. Medication injections into the eye are a part of the treatment for wet macular degeneration. 

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) medicines are examples of such therapies. They may aid in reducing the development of aberrant blood vessels and halt additional harm to the macula. Laser therapy or photodynamic therapy may also help destroy abnormal blood vessels.

Early detection and treatment are critical for preserving vision in individuals with wet macular degeneration. Thus, frequent eye exams are crucial. You must also see an eye doctor if any vision loss symptoms manifest.

Conclusion

Macular degeneration is a common eye disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Although there is no cure for the condition, lifestyle changes can help slow its advancement. The most prevalent type is dry macular degeneration, which advances gradually.

Although less frequent, wet macular degeneration can trigger faster and more severe visual loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preserving vision in individuals with either form of macular degeneration.

For more on macular degeneration, visit Shalimar Eye Care at our Shalimar, Florida office. Call (850) 972-1600 to schedule an appointment today.