Macular degeneration is a prevalent eye condition impacting the central vision and exists in two primary forms: wet and dry. Despite both affecting the macula and the central part of the retina, these variants vary significantly in their progression, symptoms, and severity.
This article will explain the differences between both forms of macular degeneration. Understanding this is crucial for effective management and timely interventions to preserve vision in individuals affected by this condition.
What are the distinguishing features of wet and dry macular degeneration?
Wet and dry macular degeneration have different modes of attack and progression in the body. Also, they show different symptoms.
Nature of Damage: Dry macular degeneration involves the gradual breakdown of light-sensitive cells in the macula, leading to blurred vision and the appearance of drusen, tiny yellow deposits. Conversely, wet macular degeneration originates from abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina. These vessels leak blood and fluids, causing sudden and severe damage to vision.
Progression: Dry macular degeneration generally advances slowly, often exhibiting mild or unnoticeable symptoms in its early stages. In contrast, wet macular degeneration tends to progress rapidly, resulting in swift and more pronounced visual distortions and a quicker decline in vision.
Symptoms: Dry AMD commonly manifests as blurry central vision and difficulty discerning fine details. On the other hand, wet AMD can cause straight lines to appear wavy, sudden blind spots in central vision, and distortions, such as seeing shapes irregularly.
Which is worse wet or dry macular degeneration?
Determining the severity between wet and dry macular degeneration remains complex due to their distinct progression rates and impact on vision. However, wet macular degeneration is generally considered more severe due to its rapid progression and potential for sudden and profound vision loss. Its swift onset often leads to immediate concerns about vision deterioration compared to the gradual decline observed in dry macular degeneration.
Can wet macular degeneration turn back to dry?
Wet macular degeneration does not naturally transition back to the dry form. Nevertheless, timely and effective treatments, notably anti-VEGF injections, can help stabilize the condition and prevent further damage. These injections target abnormal blood vessels, reducing leakage and preserving vision. Although this treatment does not reverse wet AMD to dry AMD, it effectively manages and mitigates its severity, preventing further degeneration.
Research endeavours focus on methods to prevent the transition or development of the wet form from the dry form. Early detection of dry AMD, coupled with lifestyle modifications and routine eye examinations, may assist in averting its progression to the wet form.
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