The two important types of age related macular degeneration are wet AMD and dry AMD. The forms can attack any one or both of the eyes. A patient diagnosed for dry AMD can later develop wet AMD.
Wet AMD: This type of age-related macular degeneration is caused by the abnormal growth of blood vessels behind the retina. This happens when the membrane underlying the retina breaks and disrupts the oxygen supply to the macula. The new blood vessels, which are very delicate, grow under the macula and often rupture easily leaking fluids and blood. This leaking alters the position of macula and causes scarring. Wet AMD occurs suddenly resulting in the loss of central vision.
Distorted vision and straight line appearing wavy are the initial symptoms of wet AMD. This is the most severe form of AMD and immediate professional advice should be taken.
Of all age-related macular degeneration cases, only 10% is due to wet AMD but it causes the maximum damage and can lead to blindness. If detected early, laser treatment can be effective in stopping the leak of the blood vessels causing wet AMD.
Dry AMD: Macula is made of light-sensitive cells and the breaking down...