What can I expect with my vision after a wet AMD diagnosis?

What can I expect with my vision after a diagnosis of Wet Macular Degeneration? [MUSIC PLAYING]

Age related macular degeneration, or AMD, is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50.

AMD is a progressive disorder with two types, wet and dry. Dry AMD is the most common type.

Neovascular, or wet AMD, is rarer, but also more severe. There are multiple stages of wet AMD

that can lead to vision loss over time. The early symptoms of AMD are difficulty seeing at night or in dim lighting.

If you get your eyes examined, your health care provider may look for drusen, another indicator of AMD.

Drusen are deposits of tissue within the retina that are made up of dead cells. While they likely don't directly cause AMD, having drusen

increases a person's risk of developing AMD. During the intermediate stage of AMD, pigment abnormalities may occur and some people

may experience a blurred spot in the center of their vision. Colors may appear less intense and contrast sensitivity

may be reduced. When AMD has reached its last or most severe stage, vision loss becomes most noticeable.

People may experience distorted vision, difficulty recognizing faces, and central vision loss.

While wet AMD does not cause total blindness, it can be difficult to do certain activities with central vision loss.

Thankfully, there are ways to manage AMD before it reaches the advanced stage. With proper therapy and medication,

the progression of vision loss can be slowed down significantly. The earlier wet AMD is diagnosed, the better.

So it's best to get your eyes examined frequently. If you experience changes in your vision, conctact eye care specialists like an optometrist

or ophthalmologist. [MUSIC PLAYING]