What is wet age-related macular degeneration?

Video - What is wet AMD?

Treatment options

Although there is currently no cure, wet AMD can be treated if caught early. There are a number of treatment options that can help slow progression.

Anti-VEGF injections 

Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections have significantly changed the outlook for people with wet AMD. They work by:

• Blocking the growth of abnormal blood vessels
• Reducing fluid build-up beneath the macula

This helps to slow vision loss and, in many cases, maintain sight.

Common anti-VEGF treatments include ranibizumab, aflibercept, and bevacizumab. These are given as intravitreal injections, meaning they’re administered directly into the eye.  

After diagnosis, people will usually have a loading dose of three injections, one per month for three months. A patient will then be assessed to see if more injections are required. 

Prevention 

While some risk factors, such as age and genes, can’t be changed, there are some factors that can help slow progression: 

• Quit smoking 
• Follow a healthy, Mediterranean style diet rich in fish, leafy greens, nuts and whole grains 
• Maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure 
• Consider AREDS2 supplement formulations if recommended by a clinician  
• Protect eyes from UV light and monitor regularly with eye tests 

Living with wet AMD 

Many people with wet AMD continue to live active and fulfilling lives. Making small lifestyle adjustments can help support your wellbeing and maintain independence: 

• Use assistive technology such as magnifiers, large print materials, high-contrast settings and screen readers.
• Improve your environment by ensuring good lighting, reducing glare and enhancing colour contrast at home 
• Look after your emotional wellbeing. Feelings of loss or anxiety are common, it can help to talk to family and friends, or seek professional support.

The Macular Society offers a range of support to help you adapt:

Our support services:

There is also a wide range of practical advice and helpful information on macular disease on our website. Also for the latest updates and guidance from experts, see our webinars.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between wet and dry AMD?

Dry AMD is more common and progresses slowly, caused by a gradual thinning of the macula. Wet AMD is less common but more serious. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak fluid or blood, leading to faster vision loss. Some people with dry AMD may eventually develop the wet form.  

Can wet age-related macular degeneration cause blindness? 

Wet AMD affects central vision, which is crucial for reading, driving and recognising faces. It doesn't cause total blindness, but it can severely impact daily life. Peripheral vision usually remains intact, meaning you won't go completely blind but may be registered as sight impaired or severely sight impaired. 

Is there a cure for wet AMD? 

There’s currently no cure for wet AMD. However, treatments like anti-VEGF injections can help stop further vision loss and may even improve sight for some people. Early detection and treatment are vital, and research into new and longer-lasting treatments, including gene therapy, is ongoing.

How soon should I get treatment after diagnosis? 

Wet AMD needs urgent treatment, ideally within two weeks of diagnosis. The sooner you start treatment, the better the chance of preserving your central vision. Delaying treatment can result in irreversible damage to the retina. 

How often will I need injections? 

Treatment usually starts with three monthly anti-VEGF injections. After that, most people move to maintenance treatment every four to eight weeks, depending on how the condition responds. Some people may need injections for several years, while others may stabilise sooner. 

Can I still drive with wet AMD? 

You may be able to drive with wet AMD as long as you meet legal vision requirements, but you must have your condition assessed by an eye specialist and report it to the licensing authority if both eyes are affected

How to cope with wet AMD? 

Lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking, eating a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3s, managing blood pressure and staying physically active can help slow progression. While these changes won’t cure wet AMD, they support overall eye health and may protect the other eye if only one is affected. 

What assistive devices can help with everyday living? 

People with wet AMD often benefit from low-vision aids such as magnifiers, large-print books, screen-reading software and voice-activated devices. Good lighting, high-contrast settings and using audio tools (like talking clocks or books) can also improve independence.

What should I do if my vision suddenly worsens?

Seek medical attention immediately. Sudden vision loss could indicate progression or other serious eye conditions that require urgent treatment.