Does Having Dry AMD Mean I’ll Get Wet AMD?

If you’ve been diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD,) it’s natural to wonder whether it will turn into the more serious wet form. Dry AMD is more common and develops gradually, but wet AMD progresses quickly and is more likely to cause severe vision loss.

At Milwaukee Eye Surgeons in Brookfield, WI, fellowship-trained ophthalmologist Dr. Kenneth Weinlander specializes in advanced diagnostics and treatment of AMD. We serve patients from across Southeast Wisconsin, including Waukesha and Menomonee Falls, and offer accessible, affordable care in a state-of-the-art outpatient setting.

Understanding the Two Types of AMD

Dry AMD starts in the macula, the small, central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed central vision and color perception. It occurs when the macula thins over time, and tiny protein deposits called drusen accumulate. Of all people with AMD, 80-90% have dry AMD.

It may not cause symptoms at first, but can cause straight lines to appear wavy and other visual issues, gradually leading to blurry central vision or even central vision loss.

Dry AMD may turn into wet AMD, the more severe type. In wet AMD, unhealthy, fragile new blood vessels rapidly grow under the retina. They often leak and can scar the macula, causing rapid loss of central vision.

Does Dry AMD Always Become Wet AMD?

The good news is that most people with dry AMD do not progress to wet AMD. However, about 10–15% of patients with dry AMD may eventually develop the wet form.

That’s why routine eye exams and OCT scans are so important, even if your vision feels stable. Diagnosing AMD early allows us to get a head start on treating it and preventing its progression.

How We Help You Monitor and Treat AMD

At Milwaukee Eye Surgeons, we closely monitor AMD with advanced imaging and help patients take proactive steps.

With dry AMD, that usually involves healthy lifestyle changes and taking a specific supplement regimen (AREDS2) that has been shown to help to help slow disease progression.

If wet AMD develops, we can begin treatment promptly with injections or laser therapy, performed here in our office for maximum convenience and cost effectiveness.

Get Specialized AMD Care Close to Home

If you’ve been diagnosed with dry AMD or are worried about progression, call Milwaukee Eye Surgeons at 414-377-5550 to book your consultation today.