If you are looking for differences between wet and dry age-related macular degeneration, then you might already be familiar with the term macular degeneration. In case you are not, macular degeneration refers to the deterioration of the retina’s central portion called macula. The condition leads to progressive loss of vision affecting a person’s ability to read or recognise colours. Age-related macular degeneration is classified into two types namely, wet age-related macular degeneration & dry age-related macular degeneration.
Let us take a look at how these two differ from each other
1. Dry Macular Degeneration: Dry macular degeneration is a common eye disorder among people who are above the age of 50. It affects one eye first, eventually moving on to the other eye. It worsens the vision making it difficult to read, drive, and identify colours. Often people complain of not being able to recognise faces. As there is no cure available for macular degeneration, early detection and self-care measures may help delay the progression and severity of the condition. Dry macular degeneration is more common than wet macular degeneration, and is less severe than the latter. Dry macular degeneration progresses to wet macular degeneration if the blood vessels under the retina leak.
Symptoms of dry macular degeneration
- As dry macular degeneration affects retina’s central portion, it reduces the central vision which is necessary for reading, driving, and recognising faces
- Visuals appear distorted
- Reading or closer work like sewing requires extra light
- Printed words appear to be blurred
- Brightness of colours appears less intense
- Difficulty in recognising faces
Causes of dry macular degeneration
As of now the exact cause of dry macular degeneration is not known. Research indicates it may be linked to a combination of several heredity and environmental factors. Smoking and diet may have a role to play.
2. Wet macular degeneration: Wet macular degeneration is a chronic eye disorder that blocks central vision when blood vessels leak liquid into the retina’s central portion called macula. This condition usually starts with dry macular degeneration. It appears suddenly, and worsens rapidly. It affects the central vision but does not affect the peripheral vision. Therefore, it rarely causes total blindness. Though some of the symptoms of wet macular degeneration are same as that of dry macular degeneration, wet macular degeneration’s symptoms appear abruptly and worsen rapidly.
Symptoms of wet macular degeneration
- Distorted vision
- Colours appear less bright
- Central vision in one or both the eye seems reduced
- An appearance of blurry spot or blind spot in the field of vision
- Overall vision seems to be hazy
Causes of wet macular degeneration
If you notice any changes in your central vision and your ability to see colours and fine details are weakened, see an eye doctor at the earliest. These symptoms may be the first indication of macular degeneration, especially if you are above the age of 50.
When to see an eye doctor?
If you notice any changes in your central vision and ability to see colours and fine details seem weakened, visit your nearest eye hospital at the earliest. These symptoms may be the first indication of macular degeneration, especially if you are above the age of 50.
Book an online appointment at Disha Eye Hospitals
For any kind of eye problems, consult the best eye specialists at Disha Eye Hospital, one of the leading eye hospitals in West Bengal.
Disha offers one of the best treatments for diabetic retinopathy in Kolkata. Disha Eye Hospital also offers treatment for glaucoma, cataract, squint and corneal diseases. To book an appointment online, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment.