Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the retina — the light-sensing area in the back of the eye. It can lead to vision loss and is one of the most common causes of blindness in the United States. The first step after diagnosis is to make an appointment with a retina specialist.
Here are additional steps you can consider to help preserve your vision after a wet AMD diagnosis.
Wet AMD is an advanced stage of AMD. People who develop wet AMD had the other form of the condition, dry AMD.
It is possible to have dry AMD and not notice symptoms. Because of this, some people have received a wet AMD diagnosis. Others will receive a dry AMD diagnosis and progress to wet AMD over time.
In wet AMD, blood vessels leak blood and fluid. This leakage is why it is called “wet.” The leakage is also the cause of rapid vision loss.
The vision loss usually affects the center of your vision. This makes it hard to see objects directly in front of you. Most people can still see movement, colors, and shapes at the sides of their vision.
Ask about supplements
If you already have received a dry AMD diagnosis, your eye doctor may have recommended an AREDS2 supplement. These antioxidant vitamins can help slow the progression of AMD before its late stages. However, they may not be used for advanced AMD.
If you already take AREDS2, ask your eye doctor if you can continue them. If wet AMD is only in one eye, your doctor may recommend them to help the other eye.
Consider lifestyle changes
Adopting specific habits can be beneficial any stage of AMD. Your eye doctor may suggest the following:
- eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables daily
- getting regular physical activity
- including fatty fish, such as salmon or tuna, in your diet at least twice a week
- stopping smoking if you smoke
- wearing sunglasses outdoors
When you have wet AMD, one of your goals is to preserve the vision you have. Using an Amsler grid daily can help you notice changes you might not have. Tell your eye doctor right away if even subtle changes occur.
If you do not already use an Amsler grid, ask your eye doctor about it.
Work with a low vision specialist
A low vision specialist can help you find tools to get the most out of the vision you have. These may include:
- low vision aids, such as magnifiers
- strategies for lighting and organizing your home
- technology, such as electronic devices or smartphone apps
Ask your eye doctor for a referral if you do not work with a low vision specialist.
If you have been recently diagnosed with wet AMD, you can consider involving your family in this new health transition. Together, you and your close ones can navigate treatment options, adapt to day-to-day changes, and support each other.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology states genetic variants may increase the risk of developing AMD. Although genetic testing is not necessary, understanding risk factors for AMD can help your children be better prepared to manage their eye health. Following healthy lifestyle habits and working with an eye doctor regularly will be essential for them.
Follow your treatment plan
The primary treatment for wet AMD is anti-VEGF medications. This group of drugs can help stop vision loss. In some cases, they may help improve your vision.
Anti-VEGF medications stop the growth of blood vessels that leak fluid. An eye doctor gives them as an injection into the eye. To begin treatment, most people need a monthly injection. After a while, your doctor may suggest a more extended time between injections.
Anti-VEGF drugs are effective, and you have to keep using them. Missing doses or stopping them could lead to worsening vision.
Work with your doctor to find a long-term treatment plan that works for you.