Wet AMD can make it difficult to perform daily tasks, such as watching TV, reading, doing close work like sewing, driving, recognizing faces, and adjusting to low-light environments. You may also have to deal with visual distortions that cause straight lines to appear wavy, objects appearing smaller than they really are, reduced vibrancy of colors, and a blurry or blind spot in the center of your vision.
Early detection and treatment are key in managing wet AMD. While vision loss can occur, there are treatment options available to stabilize your vision, including medications injected into the eye to stop the growth of new abnormal blood vessels. Resources are also available to help you cope with the condition, and talking to others with wet AMD can provide emotional support and connect you with valuable resources.
Following a wet AMD diagnosis, you’ll need regular eye checkups to monitor the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. This may include performing regular, simple tests at home, like using the Amsler grid to detect any changes in your vision.
Even with treatment, some irreversible vision loss may occur. Low-vision aids like magnifying devices and anti-glare sunglasses can help you make the most of your remaining vision.
The standard treatment for wet AMD involves injecting medications directly into the eye multiple times a year to block proteins used for growing new blood vessels, particularly vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Costs and packaging aside, the main difference between anti-VEGF medications to note is how often they’re needed.
A refillable ocular implant called Susvimo, which delivers ranibizumab continuously and needs to be refilled every six months, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2021 but was voluntarily recalled in 2022 because of performance problems. The delivery system may become available again in 2024.Gene therapy, still undergoing clinical trials, holds promise as a one-and-done treatment for wet AMD.
Lifestyle Changes You Can Make Right Away
Maintain a healthy diet. Embrace a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Focus on colorful options like leafy greens, oranges, carrots, and berries, which are rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin that may protect the macula. Incorporate foods high in inflammation-reducing omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and walnuts. Research suggests people who closely follow a Mediterranean diet are 41 percent less likely to develop advanced AMD.
Manage other health conditions. If you have other health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, work with your doctor to manage them effectively. Poorly controlled chronic conditions can contribute to AMD progression.
Don’t smoke. Smoking significantly increases the risk of AMD progression and other health problems. Check out our tips for how to kick the habit if you currently smoke.
Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly to improve your overall health and blood circulation to your eyes.
Protect your eyes from the sun. Protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays by wearing sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays. Wide-brimmed hats can offer additional protection.
Explore low-vision aids. These can include magnifying devices, special glasses, or electronic magnifiers to help you make the most of your remaining eyesight.
You should seek urgent medical attention if you experience any sudden changes in your vision, which may indicate a worsening progression of your wet AMD. Contact your ophthalmologist without delay if you experience any change in your near or distance vision, as well as any:
Sudden blurring of, decrease in, or distortion of vision
Distortions when using an Amsler grid, such as changes in the lines or dark spots appearing where they shouldn’t be
Increases in dark spots or floaters
Your general ophthalmologist will likely be the first point of contact for your diagnosis and management of wet AMD. Your care team may also include:
Retina Specialist A retina specialist is an ophthalmologist with additional training and expertise in diagnosing and treating diseases of the retina. Most likely, a retina specialist will manage your wet AMD treatment plan, including injections and monitoring your progress.
Low-Vision Specialist Usually optometrists, low-vision specialists can help you find ways to maximize your remaining vision.
Occupational Therapists These professionals can help you develop, improve, or maintain skills you need for navigating daily life with vision impairment.
Mental Health Professionals A range of mental health professionals, which include social workers and psychologists, can help you cope with the social and emotional tolls of vision loss.
Nurses or Optometrists One of these care professionals may provide preoperative and postoperative care or monitoring of your vision between specialist appointments.
Orientation and Mobility Specialist Specialists in this area can help you with independent and safe travel.
Assistive Technology Specialist These specialists can walk you through using various devices to make your life easier while living with vision impairment.
Support groups involving peers can help you deal with the day-to-day struggles of living with a chronic health issue like wet AMD.
Foundation Fighting Blindness
This nonprofit organization funds research for retinal degenerative diseases, including AMD. They have many local chapters where you can meet other people and families affected by blinding diseases.
Macular Degeneration Support
A worldwide nonprofit organization, MD Support provides information and support for people affected by AMD and similar retinal diseases, including by helping people connect with support groups. The organization has a searchable U.S. state and international list of low-vision support groups.
Macular Degeneration Association
This organization is all about educating patients and their caregivers affected by vision diseases and challenges. Its wealth of resources include audio books and magazines, self-help materials, links to various other support groups, and much more.
