Wet vs Dry Macular Degeneration: Understanding the Difference

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) comes in two main forms — dry (atrophic) and wet (neovascular). While both affect the macula and central vision, they behave very differently. Understanding the distinction helps patients and families know what to expect and how to protect vision.

Dry AMD

Dry AMD accounts for 85 to 90 percent of cases. It progresses slowly over years or decades as macular cells gradually thin and deteriorate. Small yellow deposits called drusen accumulate under the retina — their presence is the hallmark of early dry AMD.

Symptoms develop gradually. Patients notice reading becomes harder, faces are slightly fuzzy, colours seem less vibrant. In late-stage dry AMD, a condition called geographic atrophy causes a central blind spot that expands over time.

Wet AMD

Wet AMD is less common but more aggressive. Abnormal new blood vessels grow under or into the retina from the underlying choroid. These vessels leak fluid and blood, causing rapid damage to the macula.

Symptoms develop suddenly. Straight lines appear wavy or bent. A dark spot may appear in the center of vision. Vision can deteriorate significantly over days or weeks without treatment.

How They Are Diagnosed

Both forms are diagnosed through dilated retinal examination and OCT imaging. OCT shows the layers of the retina in exquisite detail, revealing drusen in dry AMD and fluid accumulation in wet AMD. Fluorescein angiography may be used to identify abnormal blood vessels in wet AMD.

Treatment Differs Dramatically

Dry AMD has no specific cure, but AREDS2 formula vitamins (containing high doses of vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin) can slow progression to the late stages. Lifestyle changes — quitting smoking, eating leafy greens, wearing UV protection, managing blood pressure — all matter.

Wet AMD responds remarkably well to anti-VEGF injections. These medications (such as Lucentis, Eylea, or Avastin) are injected into the eye, typically monthly at first. They shut down the abnormal blood vessels, stop leakage, and can stabilise or even improve vision in most patients.

Can Dry AMD Become Wet?

Yes. About 10 percent of patients with dry AMD develop wet AMD. This is why patients with dry AMD need regular monitoring — sometimes with home Amsler grid testing — and should report any sudden vision changes immediately.

Protect Your Macula — Book Today

If you are over 50 and haven't been screened for AMD recently, call Kenz Eye Care at 93927 01759. Our Kokapet clinic offers OCT screening and expert AMD management.