Wet AMD

Also called Neovascular AMD, Wet macular degeneration

The treatable form of macular degeneration, and the one where a fortnight's delay costs sight permanently.

What it is

Wet age-related macular degeneration deserves its own entry, separate from macular degeneration generally, because it is the one that is both an emergency and treatable, and that combination is unusual in eye disease.

Abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid and blood, damaging the macula. Unlike the dry form, which develops over years, wet AMD can destroy central vision in weeks.

It is treated with injections into the eye that block the growth of those vessels. Started promptly, they preserve vision in the majority and improve it in a substantial minority. Started late, they preserve what is left and no more.

The NHS standard is assessment within a week of referral, and treatment started within a fortnight of that.

Signs you might notice

Sudden distortion: straight lines looking wavy or bent. Doorframes, window frames, lines of text.

A dark or blurred patch appearing in the centre of vision.

Objects appearing smaller or a different shape in one eye.

Rapid deterioration over days to weeks, rather than the gradual change of dry AMD.

The Amsler grid, checked one eye at a time, is how this is caught early.

How it can affect day-to-day life

The injection schedule is a substantial commitment: frequent at first, then extended, and often continuing for years. Transport and attendance are the practical barriers, and missed appointments cost vision.

The fear before each injection is real and rarely acknowledged. Most people find the procedure far easier than they expected, and saying so in advance genuinely helps.

Both eyes need watching. Having wet AMD in one eye raises the risk in the other considerably.

Supporting someone well

Use an Amsler grid daily, one eye at a time, and check it. This is the entire early-detection system.

Treat new distortion as urgent. Same-day optometrist, and say the words sudden distortion.

Never miss an injection appointment, and arrange transport in advance rather than on the day.

Check the second eye as diligently as the treated one.

Maximise light and contrast at home while treatment takes effect.

Warn about Charles Bonnet syndrome, and ask about low vision services and certification.

Where to get help

Any optometrist can refer urgently to a macular clinic, and most will see you the same day for sudden distortion.

Macular Society helpline: 0300 3030 111.

Ask the clinic about a treat-and-extend regime, which reduces appointments once stable.