Wet Macular Degeneration: Causes and Risk Factors
Wet
macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula. These new blood vessels tend to be very fragile, and often leak blood and fluid. The blood and fluid raise the macula from its normal place at the back of the eye.
With wet macular degeneration, loss of central vision can occur quickly. Wet macular degeneration is an advanced form of the disease, and is more severe than
dry macular degeneration.
Research has shown that people with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop wet macular degeneration. A risk factor is anything that increases a person's chance of developing a disease.
Specific risk factors of wet macular degeneration include:
Stages and Symptoms of Wet Macular Degeneration
The classic early wet macular degeneration symptom is straight lines appearing crooked. This results when fluid from the leaking blood vessels gathers and lifts the macula, distorting vision.
A small blind spot may also appear in wet macular degeneration, resulting in a loss of central vision.
These possible
macular degeneration symptoms are not sure signs of macular degeneration. Other eye problems can also cause these symptoms. Anyone with these possible macular degeneration symptoms should see an eye care professional. Only an eye care professional can diagnose and treat the problem.
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