Wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD), also known as advanced neovascular AMD, is an eye condition that impacts central vision. It represents the more severe form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), also called macular degeneration or MD.

Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels form beneath the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision. These vessels leak blood or fluid, damaging the macula and causing distorted or blurry vision.

Without treatment, wet AMD can progress quickly and lead to significant vision loss or blindness. However, medical interventions such as medication and laser therapy can help slow progression and preserve vision. While nearly 20 million adults in the U.S. live with AMD, wet AMD makes up about 10 to 15% of all cases.

Types of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is one of the primary causes of permanent vision loss among older adults globally. There are two main forms of AMD: dry and wet.

dry AMD

Dry AMD is the more common form, accounting for 85 to 90% of cases. It involves thinning of the macula and the accumulation of drusen (yellow deposits) beneath the retina. Symptoms may include blurry central vision, haziness, or difficulty seeing in dim lighting.

wet AMD

Wet AMD is less common but more severe. It develops when abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula begin to leak, causing damage and scarring. Around 10 to 15% of people with dry AMD progress to the wet form, which can result in rapid and severe vision loss.

Wet AMD Symptoms

Wet AMD affects central vision, which is necessary for tasks such as reading, recognizing faces, and driving. Symptoms may appear suddenly and worsen over days or weeks. The condition can affect one or both eyes.

Common symptoms include:

  • blurry or blind spots: A dark or blurry spot in central vision that may grow in size

  • distorted vision: Straight lines may appear bent or wavy; shapes and colors may seem altered

  • reduced color vision: Colors appear faded or less vibrant

  • difficulty adjusting to low light: Trouble seeing in dim environments

  • increased sensitivity to light: Discomfort when exposed to bright lights

Causes

Wet AMD develops when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak fluids or blood. This damages the macula and causes vision distortions and blind spots. The condition often arises in individuals who already have dry AMD.

Risk Factors

Though the exact cause is unknown, both genetic and environmental elements contribute to wet AMD. Risk factors include:

  • age: Most common in people over 60

  • sex: More frequent in people assigned female at birth

  • family history: A genetic link increases risk

  • ethnicity: More common in those of Caucasian descent, especially with light-colored eyes

  • diet: Diets high in processed foods and saturated fats

  • smoking: Damages blood vessels and promotes abnormal vessel growth

  • alcohol: May contribute to retinal damage through inflammation

  • underlying conditions: High blood pressure and obesity are contributing factors

Diagnosis

Eye care professionals such as ophthalmologists and optometrists diagnose wet AMD through comprehensive eye exams. They will ask about symptoms, medical history, and risk factors.

Common diagnostic tools include:

  • visual acuity test: Measures the clarity of vision using an eye chart

  • Amsler grid test: Detects visual distortions

  • pupil dilation: Eye drops widen pupils for retinal examination

Additional tests may include:

  • fluorescein angiography: Uses a dye to highlight leaking blood vessels

  • indocyanine green angiography: Helps visualize deeper blood flow

  • optical coherence tomography (OCT): Provides detailed images of the retina

Treatments for Wet AMD

The goal of treatment is to manage the growth of abnormal blood vessels and prevent further damage to the retina.

anti-VEGF injections

Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) therapy is the primary treatment. These injections block VEGF proteins that encourage abnormal vessel growth. Treatment typically begins with monthly injections, which may become less frequent over time.

Common anti-VEGF drugs include:

  • Avastin (bevacizumab)

  • Eylea (aflibercept)

  • Lucentis (ranibizumab)

  • Beovu (brolucizumab)

  • Vabysmo (faricimab)

photodynamic therapy (PDT)

PDT involves injecting a light-sensitive drug, verteporfin, which is activated by a laser light to seal leaking vessels in the retina.

nutritional supplements

Supplements may help slow disease progression. Recommended nutrients include:

  • Vitamin C

  • Vitamin E

  • Lutein

  • Zeaxanthin

  • Zinc

  • Copper

Prevention

Although wet AMD cannot be entirely prevented, lifestyle adjustments may reduce the risk:

  • avoid smoking: Smoking is a key risk factor

  • eat a nutrient-rich diet: Focus on colorful vegetables, fruits, and foods high in omega-3s

  • get regular eye exams: Early detection is crucial for preserving vision

Related Conditions

Wet AMD is associated with several other eye conditions:

  • dry AMD: A precursor to wet AMD

  • cataracts: Clouding of the lens, also common in aging adults

  • glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve; may occur alongside AMD

Living With Wet AMD

A diagnosis of wet AMD can be emotionally and practically challenging. While some vision loss may be permanent, treatment can preserve remaining vision. Many people continue to lead full lives with the help of tools such as:

  • low-vision aids: Magnifiers, large-print materials, and voice-activated devices

  • support networks: Connecting with others facing vision loss

  • rehabilitation specialists: Professionals who teach coping strategies and adaptive techniques

With early diagnosis and consistent treatment, many individuals with wet AMD maintain independence and a good quality of life.