The Importance of Monitoring Dry Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of central vision loss for people over 50.  Dry age-related macular degeneration, AMD is often described as the slow form.  It can remain stable and not change for years.  However, dry AMD can convert to wet AMD at any time.  Wet AMD is the more aggressive form and can cause permanent loss of vision.  

In wet AMD, abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula.  These vessels can leak fluid, damaging the central retina responsible for detailed vision.  Without treatment, 80% - 90% will eventually lose enough central vision to meet the criteria for legal blindness.

Why Timing Makes All the Difference

Wet AMD is treatable!!  Modern anti – VEGF injections can stop leakage and often preserve vision. But studies have shown that the shorter duration of AMD symptoms is associated with better visual outcome after treatment.  Thus:

The sooner treatment starts after symptoms begin, the better the chances of keeping good vision! 

Typically, patients are seen and monitored at the doctor’s office every 6 months.  Sometimes they are asked to come in more often or even yearly, depending on the severity of the case. Conversion to wet AMD can occur between those appointments. 

Why Consistent Monitoring with Tracking (Layering) is Important

Monitoring for wet AMD is very time-sensitive and can save vision.  The challenge is that early wet AMD changes can be subtle.  The key is noticing that the vision (distortion) has changed. If change is missed, fluid continues to damage the retina. This is why consistent monitoring is essential.  

The problems with the traditional paper Amsler grids are that patients forget to use them, they may not use them correctly, they cannot remember what the grid looked like last week, and there is no way to track subtle changes over time. 

Wise Eyes™ App addresses all these concerns.

One of the most powerful advantages of digital monitoring - such as the layering feature on the Wise Eyes™ app - is the ability to compare today’s results with prior results.  Instead of relying on memory, you can see past test results, overlay or “layer” images to detect subtle differences, identify new distortions, and recognize progression earlier. 

We are not just looking for distortion; we are looking for CHANGE! 

Recap

AMD begins with drusen under the macula.  Some patients remain stable.  Others convert to wet AMD.  When caught early, treatment works to restore vision.  The most important factor in preserving vision is how quickly the change is detected and treatment is initiated.  The worse the vision at the starting point of treatment, the worse the outcome.  Monitoring is the difference. 

The Wise Eyes App™ gives the person the best chance to catch changes early and start treatment sooner.  The goal is to preserve vision and maintain independence. 

When it comes to wet macular degeneration, waiting is the biggest risk.

Download the app today to begin your 14-day free trial of the layering feature