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What kind of vision changes can I expect with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?
Whether you've been diagnosed with "wet" age-related macular degeneration or the "dry" form of the disease, the types and degree of vision loss you experience may or may not be right out of the "textbook." That said, there are certain generalizations that can be made about vision loss and AMD, as follows:
Dry AMD
Vision loss with dry AMD is usually gradual. You may begin to notice blank areas in your central vision. Over time, dry AMD can cause a large loss of detail vision, though vision loss is usually not as severe as with the wet form of the disease. You should be aware of the fact, however, that dry AMD can progress to wet AMD at any time.
Wet AMD
Vision loss with wet AMD is often severe and can happen quickly. You may begin to notice reduced vision and visual distortions due to the growth of abnormal blood vessels (neovascularization) in or under the retina. These blood vessels are fragile and can leak, leading to symptoms that may include lines that appear wavy, blurring of faces, difficulty seeing colors, and gaps in vision. In clinical trials, on average, most vision loss due to age-related macular degeneration occurs within the first 3 to 6 months of diagnosis.
Click here for a simulated view of sight affected by the wet form of AMD.
Whichever form of AMD you've been diagnosed with, be sure to visit your eyecare specialist often to monitor for changes in your vision.
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Related pages on this site:
Treatment Overview
Helping Your Loved One with AMD
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