Wet age-related macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak fluid or blood. This can cause rapid central vision loss if not treated promptly.
Symptoms and diagnosis
People often notice straight lines looking wavy or a dark patch in the centre of vision. These changes usually affect one eye first, so covering each eye separately is important.
- Reading, face recognition, and fine detail become difficult.
- Colours may seem less vivid than before.
- OCT scans show fluid or thickening under the macula.
- Fluorescein dye tests may be used to map leaking vessels.
- Immediate referral to a macular clinic is essential.
Treatment and follow-up
Wet AMD is commonly treated with anti-VEGF injections into the eye. These medicines aim to stop leakage, shrink abnormal vessels, and preserve vision.
- Treatment usually starts quickly and follows a regular injection schedule.
- Many patients notice stabilisation or improvement in reading and clarity.
- Long-term monitoring is needed, as disease can reactivate.
- Good lighting, magnifiers, and large-print materials support daily tasks.
- Report any sudden new distortion or blurred patches immediately.
