A Closer Look at Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Wet age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a chronic eye condition that damages the macula, a small area near the center of your retina. This part of your eye helps you see objects that are straight ahead in the center of your field of vision. AMD typically begins as the dry type when layers of the macula wear down and debris builds up on the retina.

It becomes the wet type when new blood vessels grow under the macula and leak fluid and blood into the layers. This makes the macula bulge and lift up from its normal position, which further changes your vision. You may see one or more dark, blurry, or blank spots in the center of your vision. Straight lines may look wavy because the macula isn't flat anymore. Things may seem hazy and not as bright or colorful as they used to.

If you notice that your vision is changing, see your eye doctor right away. Some people don't notice any changes, so regular eye exams are still important. There are treatments that can help, like medications injected into the eye, photodynamic laser therapy, and vitamin supplements. Early detection and treatment may help maintain or even return some of your vision.