How Doctors Diagnose Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Wet age-related macular degeneration is a common eye condition that can lead to vision loss. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula, the central part of the retina that is responsible for sharp central vision. These blood vessels can leak fluid and blood, which can damage the macula and cause vision loss.

Doctors use a variety of tests to diagnose wet age-related macular degeneration. These tests include:

* Visual acuity test: This test measures how well you can see letters and numbers on a chart at different distances.

* Amsler grid test: This test is used to check for distortions in your central vision. You will be asked to look at a grid of lines and identify any areas where the lines appear wavy or broken.

* Dilated eye exam: This test involves using a special instrument to widen the pupils of your eyes so that the doctor can get a better view of the inside of your eyes. The doctor will look for signs of wet age-related macular degeneration, such as abnormal blood vessels, fluid, or blood under the macula.

* Fluorescein angiography: This test involves injecting a dye into your arm that travels to the blood vessels in your eyes. The doctor will then use a special camera to take pictures of the blood vessels in your eyes. This test can help identify abnormal blood vessels that are leaking fluid or blood under the macula.

* Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This test uses light waves to create cross-sectional images of the retina. This test can help the doctor see the different layers of the retina and identify any abnormalities, such as fluid or blood under the macula.

If you have any of the symptoms of wet age-related macular degeneration, it is important to see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent vision loss.