Age is the number one factor that increases your risk of developing wet AMD. Other factors that can contribute to the risk of developing wet AMD incude genetics (family history), race, gender, smoking and obesity.

The most effective treatment for wet AMD is injection with anti-VEGF medication directly into the affected eye or eyes. This is the only treatment option that can prevent worsening of wet AMD.

No, anti-VEGF treatment will not cure your wet AMD completely. Anti-VEGF injections has been shown to stabilise vision in 9 out of 10 patients, and may improve vision in about a third of patients overall. ⁽ ¹ ⁾

Your ophthalmologist will first numb your eye with eye drops or a gel. Once numb, they will administer an antiseptic to prevent infection. They will then use a small syringe to inject the anti-VEGF medication into your eye using a tiny, 30-gauge needle. 

After the injection, you may experience slight irritation, similar to having sand in your eyes, from the antiseptic. This should only last about 24 hours, and using artificial tears may help. 

Both wet and dry AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) are two forms of the same eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Dry AMD is less severe, however if not addressed in time, dry AMD can progress and worsen to become Wet AMD. The following are some key differences between Dry and Wet AMD.

Dry AMD: ⁽ ² ⁾

• More common, accounting for about 80-90% of all AMD cases.
• Caused by the gradual thinning and deterioration of the macula due to ageing and the buildup of drusen (small, yellow deposits) under the retina.
• Progresses slowly and usually leads to mild to moderate vision loss.
• Symptoms include slightly blurred or distorted central vision, difficulty adapting to low light levels, and increased need for brighter light when reading or doing close work.
• No specific treatment available, but lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and protecting your eyes from UV light, can help slow down the progression.
• Some patients may benefit from the AREDS2 formula, a specific combination of vitamins and minerals that may help slow the progression of the disease.

Wet AMD: ⁽ ³ ⁾

• Less common but more severe, accounting for about 10-20% of all AMD cases.
• Caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula, which leak fluid or blood and damage the macula.
• Progresses more rapidly and can lead to severe vision loss.
• Symptoms include sudden, significant vision loss, blind spots, and distorted vision (straight lines appearing wavy or curved).
• Treatments include anti-VEGF injections, photodynamic therapy, and laser surgery, which aim to halt or slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels and prevent further vision loss.

Note that both wet and dry AMD share some common risk factors, such as age, genetics, smoking, obesity, and exposure to sunlight. Regular eye examinations can help with early detection and timely treatment, which is crucial for preserving vision.