Overview
Wet macular degeneration is a long-lasting eye disorder that causes blurred vision or a blind spot in the central vision. It’s usually caused by blood vessels that leak fluid or blood into the macula (MAK-u-luh). The macula is the part of the retina that gives the eye clear vision in the direct line of sight.
Wet macular degeneration is one of two types of age-related macular degeneration. The other type, dry macular degeneration, is more common and less severe. The wet type always begins as the dry type.
Early detection and treatment of wet macular degeneration may help reduce vision loss. In some instances, early treatment may recover vision.
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Symptoms
Wet macular degeneration symptoms usually appear suddenly and worsen quickly. They may include:
- Visual distortions, such as straight lines seeming bent.
- Reduced central vision in one or both eyes.
- The need for brighter light when reading or doing close-up work.
- Difficulty adjusting to low light levels, such as when entering a dimly lit restaurant or theater.
- Increased blurriness of printed words.
- Difficulty recognizing faces.
- A well-defined blurry spot or blind spot in the field of vision.
Macular degeneration doesn’t affect side vision, so it doesn’t cause total blindness.
When to see a doctor
See your eye doctor if:
- You notice changes in your central vision.
- You lose the ability to see fine detail.
These changes may be the first indication of macular degeneration, particularly if you’re older than age 60.
