Wet Macular Degeneration
Wet Macular Degeneration: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Causes
Wet macular degeneration is a persistent eye disorder characterized by blurred vision or a blind spot in central vision.
It typically results from blood vessels leaking fluid or blood into the macula, the part of the retina responsible for clear central vision.This condition often develops in individuals who already have dry macular degeneration, with about 20% of those affected by age-related macular degeneration experiencing the wet form.
Symptoms
Symptoms of wet macular degeneration usually manifest suddenly and progress rapidly.
These symptoms include
- Visual distortions
- Reduced central vision
- Increased light requirement for close-up work
- Difficulty adjusting to low light levels
- Increased blurriness of printed words
- Difficulty recognizing faces.
Affected individuals may experience well-defined blurry spots or blind spots in their field of vision.
Despite these changes, wet macular degeneration does not affect side vision and does not lead to total blindness.
When to See a Doctor
Consult an eye doctor if there are changes in central vision or a loss of fine detail, particularly if over age 60.
These changes may indicate the onset of macular degeneration and necessitate prompt medical evaluation.
Causes
The exact cause of wet macular degeneration is unknown, but it typically develops in individuals with dry macular degeneration.
It may result from irregular blood vessel growth from the choroid into the macula, known as choroidal neovascularization, or from fluid buildup in the back of the eye.
Risk factors for macular degeneration include
- Advancing age
- family history
- Genetics
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular disease.
Risk Factors
- Advanced age, family history, and genetics increase the risk of macular degeneration.
- Smoking, obesity, and cardiovascular disease are significant risk factors.
- Caucasians are more susceptible to the condition.
Complications
Individuals with advanced wet macular degeneration may experience depression, social isolation, and visual hallucinations.
Central vision loss poses significant challenges and may lead to complications such as Charles Bonnet syndrome.
Prevention
- Routine eye exams aid in early detection and intervention.
- Managing other medical conditions
- Quitting smoking
- Maintaining a healthy weight,
- Diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish help reduce the risk of developing wet macular degeneration.
