Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Understanding Dry vs. Wet AMD and Treatment

Your guide to understanding age-related macular degeneration. How do eye injections protect vision in wet AMD from rapid deterioration? With Dr. Mahmoud Hassan.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Understanding the Difference Between Dry and Wet Types and the Latest Treatment Options

As we age, our bodies change, and our eyes are also affected. One common visual challenge faced by older adults is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects the center of vision (the macula) in the retina, leading to blurred or lost central vision. The most prominent feature of this condition is the existence of two main types: dry and wet, each with its distinct characteristics and treatment methods. In this article, we will delve into understanding these differences and how Dr. Mahmoud Hassan, as a key contributor to Al Mashreq Eye Center, can offer you the latest scientific advancements in diagnosing and treating macular degeneration.

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

The macula, or retinal macula, is a small, highly sensitive part at the back of the eye responsible for our sharp, central vision, which we use for reading, recognizing faces, and driving. Age-related macular degeneration is a degenerative disease that affects this vital area, directly impacting the quality of our visual life. It usually starts slowly, and the patient may not notice clear symptoms in its early stages, but over time, it can progress to cause permanent loss of central vision.

Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD): Gradual Deterioration

The dry type accounts for about 80-90% of age-related macular degeneration cases. This type is characterized by the gradual deterioration of macular cells. This often occurs due to the thinning of the macula layers and the accumulation of small yellow deposits called "drusen" under the retina. These deposits, over time, can impede the function of light-sensitive cells and lead to a gradual decline in central vision.

Symptoms of Dry Macular Degeneration:

• Blurry or distorted central vision.
• Need for brighter illumination for reading.
• Difficulty recognizing faces.
• Appearance of wavy or crooked lines instead of straight lines (in some cases).
• Longer time needed to adapt to low light levels.

Scientifically, there is currently no cure for the dry type, but there are strategies that can help slow the disease's progression, such as taking specific dietary supplements (like vitamins A, C, E, zinc, and lutein) that have shown effectiveness in some studies, in addition to quitting smoking and following a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and fruits. Regular follow-up with a specialized ophthalmologist is also essential for early detection of any changes.

Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD): Rapid Deterioration and Bleeding

Although the wet type is less common, it is often more severe and rapid in its deterioration. Wet AMD occurs when new, abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula. These vessels are fragile and leak fluid and blood easily into the retinal layers, causing rapid damage to the visual cells and leading to sudden and severe loss of central vision.

Symptoms of Wet Macular Degeneration:

• Sudden distortion in central vision (straight lines appear wavy or curved).
• Appearance of a dark or blind spot in the center of the visual field.
• Acute decrease in visual acuity.
• These symptoms may be preceded by the sudden appearance of "eye floaters."

It should be noted that the dry type can progress to the wet type in some cases. Fortunately, the field of wet type treatment has seen tremendous advancements in recent years, offering significant hope for patients to recover some of their vision or at least halt the deterioration of the condition.

Latest Treatment Options for Wet Macular Degeneration

Treatment for wet macular degeneration primarily focuses on stopping the growth of abnormal blood vessels and preventing fluid leakage from them. Among the most prominent available treatments are:

1. Intravitreal Injections:

These injections are the cornerstone of wet type treatment. Medicines called "anti-vascular endothelial growth factor" (Anti-VEGF) are injected directly into the vitreous body of the eye. These drugs work by inhibiting a specific growth factor responsible for the formation and leakage of abnormal blood vessels. Among the most common of these drugs are:

• Eylea: An effective drug that has proven its ability to improve vision in many patients. The price of Eylea injections in Egypt for 2026 is approximately 9,000 EGP (approximate).
• Vabysmo: A newer drug that combines the mechanism of action of anti-VEGF with another mechanism that targets a different growth factor, providing powerful efficacy. The price of Vabysmo injections in Egypt for 2026 is approximately 11,000 EGP (approximate).
• Other drugs such as Lucentis and Avastin are also used in some cases.

The patient usually requires a series of injections, which may be monthly or every few months, depending on their response to the condition. These injections are performed in the doctor's office under sterile conditions and are a relatively safe procedure.

2. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT):

In this therapy, a light-sensitive drug is injected intravenously, and then a special laser is directed at the macula to activate the drug. The goal is to close the abnormal blood vessels without harming the surrounding retina. This treatment is sometimes used in conjunction with injections.

3. Thermal Laser Photocoagulation:

This type of laser is used to destroy abnormal blood vessels that caused the leakage. However, this treatment can cause a small scar in the macula, which may lead to a small loss of central vision. Therefore, it is used less commonly now compared to injections.

Prevention and Follow-up with Dr. Mahmoud Hassan

Although aging is the main risk factor for macular degeneration, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk or slow the disease's progression:

• Regular eye exams: Especially after the age of fifty, to assess macular health.
• Healthy nutrition: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
• Quitting smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing and worsening macular degeneration.
• Protecting eyes from harmful UV rays.
• Monitoring any sudden changes in vision and reporting them to the doctor immediately.

At Al Mashreq Eye Center, Dr. Mahmoud Hassan and his team are committed to providing the latest diagnostic technologies, such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and OCT Angiography, for accurate diagnosis of both types of macular degeneration. Based on the diagnosis, an individualized treatment plan is developed for each patient, focusing on delivering the best possible outcomes to preserve vision.

Understanding the difference between dry and wet macular degeneration is the first step towards effective management of this condition. With continuous advancements in treatment, there is great hope for controlling the disease and maintaining vision quality for as long as possible.

For bookings and inquiries: 01002310813

For more information and tips on eye health, you can follow Dr. Mahmoud Hassan's YouTube channel:.

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