The first signs of wet AMD often appear in central vision: straight lines looking wavy, a new blur in the centre of vision, or more difficulty reading fine print. Other early symptoms can include distortion, a new dark or blank spot, reduced sharpness, and trouble seeing detail. These changes can be subtle, especially when only one eye is affected at first.
How wet AMD may first appear
The earliest noticeable changes are often in central vision. People may describe straight lines looking wavy, a new blur in the centre of vision, or more difficulty reading fine print.
Early symptoms people often notice
Common early symptoms include:
- distortion (straight lines appearing wavy)
- reduced sharpness
- a new dark or blank spot in central vision
- trouble recognizing detail
- colours seeming less vivid, in some cases
Can the first signs of wet AMD be subtle?
Yes. If only one eye is affected at first, the other eye may compensate, which can make the change feel less obvious. Some people only notice a difference when each eye is checked separately.
How wet AMD is assessed
Wet AMD is usually assessed with a dilated eye examination and retinal imaging such as OCT and retinal photographs. These tests help show fluid, blood, and changes in the macula.
Key takeaway
The first signs of wet AMD often involve new distortion or a new central blur. Even when the change seems mild, the pattern of symptoms can be different from the slower changes more often associated with dry AMD.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common early signs of wet AMD?
Early signs often involve central vision, such as straight lines looking wavy, a new central blur, a new dark or blank spot, reduced sharpness, and more difficulty reading fine print.
Can wet AMD affect only one eye at first?
Yes. When only one eye is affected at first, the other eye may compensate, which can make the change less obvious. Some people notice it only when each eye is checked separately.
How is wet AMD diagnosed?
Wet AMD is usually assessed with a dilated eye examination and retinal imaging such as OCT and retinal photographs, which help show fluid, blood, and changes in the macula.
Are the first signs of wet AMD different from dry AMD?
The pattern, often new distortion or a new central blur, can differ from the slower changes more often associated with dry AMD.
Retina care and referrals in Hamilton
If you have noticed new changes in your central vision, an eye care provider can assess your eyes. Precision Retina Care accepts patient referrals from optometrists and referring physicians in the Hamilton area. Learn more about how wet AMD is managed or visit our referral information page.
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General educational information only. This page is not a substitute for an eye examination or individualized medical advice. Specific referral, testing, and treatment decisions depend on clinical assessment.
Reviewed by Dr. Varun Chaudhary, vitreoretinal specialist, Retina Consultants of Hamilton.