Dry vs. Wet Macular Degeneration: Understanding the Differences and What They Mean for Your Vision

Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss, particularly among older adults. This progressive eye disease affects the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. There are two main types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Understanding the differences between them is essential for early detection, treatment, and preserving vision.
 

Dry Macular Degeneration

Dry macular degeneration, also known as atrophic macular degeneration, is the most common form, accounting for about 85-90% of all cases. This condition occurs when the macula gradually thins over time, leading to the slow loss of central vision.
 

Key Characteristics of Dry Macular Degeneration:

• Gradual Vision Loss: Symptoms develop slowly over months or years.

• Drusen Formation: Small yellow deposits (drusen) accumulate beneath the retina, affecting visual function.

• Distorted or Blurry Central Vision: Straight lines may appear wavy, or reading may become difficult.

• Difficulty with Low Light: Patients often struggle with night vision and adapting to dim lighting.
   

Currently, there is no cure for dry macular degeneration, but lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, quitting smoking, and protecting the eyes from UV light may help slow its progression. In some cases, specific vitamin supplements (AREDS2 formula) may be recommended.
 

Wet Macular Degeneration

Wet macular degeneration, or neovascular macular degeneration, is less common but more severe. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak fluid or blood, causing rapid and significant vision loss.
 

Key Characteristics of Wet Macular Degeneration:

• Sudden or Rapid Vision Loss: Vision deterioration occurs quickly, sometimes within days or weeks.

• Distorted Vision: Straight lines may appear bent or crooked.

• Dark or Blank Spots: A central blind spot may develop in one or both eyes.

• Fluid or Blood Leakage: The presence of leaking blood vessels can cause swelling and damage to the macula.
   

Treatment for wet macular degeneration often involves anti-VEGF injections, which help reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage. In some cases, laser therapy may also be used to seal off leaking blood vessels and slow vision loss.
 

Treating Both Dry and Wet AMD through The Macular Program

At Seabert Eye Care, we are proud to be one of a few practices nationwide to utilize innovative medical technology designed to address age-related macular degeneration through The Macular Program.
 

The Macular Program is designed to prevent, stabilize, and potentially reverse vision loss in both dry and wet AMD by addressing root causes such as oxidative stress, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and epigenetics. Using tailored plans based on individual lab results and health profiles, it provides clinically proven interventions, including targeted antioxidants, hormone balancing, and cellular regeneration support. The program reduces dependence on eye injections for wet AMD by activating protective genes, deactivating harmful ones like VEGF, and improving overall cellular health and metabolic function.
 

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Essential

Macular degeneration can progress without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Because vision loss is often irreversible, early detection through comprehensive eye exams is crucial. During an exam, an eye doctor can use advanced imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus photography to identify macular changes before they significantly impact vision.
 

Routine exams also allow for timely intervention, whether through lifestyle adjustments for dry macular degeneration or medical treatments for wet macular degeneration. The sooner these conditions are diagnosed, the better the chances of preserving eyesight.
 

Protect Your Vision with Seabert Eye Care

Understanding the differences between dry and wet macular degeneration is key to protecting your vision. While dry macular degeneration progresses slowly, wet macular degeneration can lead to rapid and severe vision loss if left untreated. Regardless of the type, early detection through regular eye exams and treatment through The Macular Program is essential for managing the disease and maintaining eye health.
 

At Seabert Eye Care, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye exams to detect and manage macular degeneration early. If you’re experiencing any changes in your vision or would like to learn more about The Macular Program, contact our office in Burleson, Texas, by calling (817) 857-8700 to schedule an appointment today.