What is neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration is a severe form of AMD that mostly affects older people. In this condition, small blood vessels grow under the macula—the central part of the retina that helps you see clearly. These blood vessels are abnormal, and they can leak fluid or blood into the eye. When they do this, the macula can swell and not work correctly, leading to a faster loss of central vision. This loss of central vision can make everyday tasks such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces difficult. Doctors often call this "wet" AMD because of the leakage, which contrasts with the slower, "dry" form of AMD seen in many patients. Early detection is important so treatment can help slow down the vision loss. If you're experiencing vision changes or other concerning symptoms, you can check your symptoms with a free AI-powered tool to better understand what might be happening. Treatments may involve medicines that block the growth of these unwanted blood vessels and reduce the leaks. Regular eye checks are critical, especially for older adults, to catch any signs early and start treatment as soon as possible.