What is Wet AMD?

We should not take our sight for granted.
Unfortunately, age and lifestyle can be the cause of impaired vision in almost everyone.
AMD is an eye disease that affects the retina.
The retina is found at the back of the eye.
The retina is made up of the sensory cells you use to see.
AMD is the most common cause of vision loss and blindness among the elderly.
It is almost only people over 60 years of age who are affected by the disease.
AMD is also known as age spots or calcifications on the retina.
There are two types of AMD: Dry AMD and wet AMD.
Dry AMD is the early stage and is caused by waste that accumulates under the retina.
If the disease develops, blood vessels may grow into the retina.
If that happens, you've got wet AMD.
The new blood vessels are leaking and fluid leaks into the retina.
Many factors are involved in the development of AMD.
AMD can be hereditary, but age, smoking and being overweight also play a role.
In the early stages of AMD, you will find that vision becomes blurred.
You may also experience that straight lines start to look curved.
For example, a door or window frame can look bent.
If the disease develops into wet AMD, these symptoms will worsen.
You may also risk loss of sharp vision or sharpness disappearing altogether.
Peripheral vision will often be intact.
For example, patients with wet AMD experience problems reading or recognising faces.
You may also experience problems with normal daily tasks, such as cooking or cleaning.
You can still find your way around at home or on a walk, because your peripheral vision is intact.
In an examination, you can find out if you are at risk of an eye disease.
If AMD is suspected, you should be examined by an ophthalmologist.
The ophthalmologist will measure the vision, and perform a scan of the retina, which can show if there are signs of AMD.
If there is evidence of dry AMD, the ophthalmologist will agree to check.
If you have signs of wet AMD, please refer to the eye department in the hospital.
The eye department will check for any signs of wet AMD.
They will check for newly formed blood vessels and perform a retina scan.
In some cases, a contrast study will be carried out.
Contrast fluid is injected into your arm.
Pictures are taken of the retina.
If there is evidence of wet AMD, you should be treated.
Early detection of eye diseases is important as early treatment can help reduce vision loss and improve the course of treatment, and ultimately give you a better quality of life.