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What does diabetic retinopathy mean? It’s one of the most common and serious complications of diabetes—and one that can permanently damage your vision if left untreated. This condition develops when high blood sugar damages the small blood vessels in your retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, we specialize in diagnosing and managing diabetic eye disease through advanced imaging, prevention, and treatments that protect sight. Understanding what diabetic retinopathy means is the first step toward taking control of your eye health and preventing vision loss before it starts.

If you’re living with diabetes, regular eye care is not optional—it’s essential. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive diabetic eye exam.

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy and How It Develops Over Time

What is diabetic retinopathy? It’s a progressive eye condition caused by prolonged high blood sugar, which damages the tiny capillaries in the retina. Over time, these blood vessels can leak fluid or blood, leading to swelling, scarring, and even retinal detachment.

The disease often begins silently. Early on, you may not notice changes in your vision. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms such as blurred or fluctuating vision, dark spots, or difficulty seeing at night become more apparent.

Diabetic retinopathy develops in two main stages:

1. Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR): The early stage, where blood vessels weaken and leak small amounts of fluid.
   
   
2. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR): The advanced stage, where new, fragile blood vessels grow abnormally—often leading to bleeding, scar tissue, and possible vision loss.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, we use cutting-edge diagnostic imaging to identify retinopathy before irreversible damage occurs.

How Does Blood Sugar Affect the Eyes and Lead to Retinopathy?

Many people don’t realize how blood sugar affects the eyes. When glucose levels remain high, they damage blood vessels throughout the body—including those in the retina.

These vessels may begin to leak, swell, or close off entirely, depriving retinal tissue of oxygen. In response, the eye may try to grow new vessels, but these are fragile and prone to breaking. The result is blurred vision, floaters, or even sudden vision loss if bleeding occurs.

Keeping your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control is the best way to reduce this damage.

How Does Diabetic Retinopathy Affect Vision and Daily Life?

Diabetic retinopathy affects vision differently depending on the stage of the disease. The effects depend on the stage of disease. Early on, you might experience mild blurriness or see dark floaters. As the condition advances, swelling of the macula—known as diabetic macular edema—can make reading or recognizing faces difficult.

In advanced stages, bleeding into the vitreous gel or retinal detachment can cause sudden, severe vision loss. Beyond visual clarity, diabetic retinopathy affects emotional well-being, independence, and confidence in daily tasks.

Prompt diagnosis and Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment In Albuquerque can stabilize your vision and help you maintain your quality of life.

How Common Is Diabetic Retinopathy and Who Is Most at Risk?

How common is diabetic retinopathy? According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, roughly one in three adults with diabetes has some form of retinal damage. It’s also the leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults worldwide.

Risk factors include:

• Duration of diabetes: The longer you’ve had diabetes, the higher your risk.
  
  
• Poor blood sugar control: Chronic hyperglycemia accelerates damage.
  
  
• High blood pressure or cholesterol: Both contribute to vascular problems in the eyes.
  
  
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can worsen diabetic eye complications.
  
  
• Ethnicity: Hispanic, African-American, and Native American populations face higher rates of diabetic eye disease.

Routine eye exams help identify retinopathy in its earliest, most treatable stages.

Diabetic Retinopathy Symptoms That Should Never Be Ignored

The early stages of diabetic retinopathy often have no noticeable symptoms, which makes preventive care critical. However, certain warning signs indicate that retinal damage may already be occurring.

What Are the Warning Signs of Diabetic Retinopathy to Watch For?

Common diabetic retinopathy symptoms include:

• Blurred or fluctuating vision
  
  
• New or worsening floaters (dark spots or strings in your vision)
  
  
• Difficulty seeing at night
  
  
• Faded or washed-out colors
  
  
• A sudden loss of vision

If you experience any of these, schedule a diabetic eye exam immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to permanent vision damage.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, we help patients recognize what are the warning signs of diabetic retinopathy early and respond quickly to protect sight.

Diabetes and Eye Test Procedures for Early Detection

Comprehensive diabetes and eye test procedures are the key to catching diabetic retinopathy before symptoms appear. At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our specialists perform detailed imaging and visual assessments to monitor eye health and detect the smallest vascular changes.

How Often Should Diabetics Get Eye Exams for Retinopathy Prevention?

Experts recommend that all adults with diabetes get a diabetic eye exam at least once per year. However, those with existing retinopathy or uncontrolled blood sugar may need visits every 3–6 months.

Early detection through regular eye tests allows your retina specialist to intervene before vision is affected.

What to Expect During Your Diabetic Eye Exam

During your exam at Retina Consultants of New Mexico, your doctor will:

1. Dilate your pupils to examine the retina and optic nerve.
   
   
2. Use optical coherence tomography (OCT) to detect swelling or fluid.
   
   
3. Perform fluorescein angiography if vessel leakage is suspected.
   
   
4. Assess visual acuity and check for any changes since your last visit.

These painless, non-invasive tests give a clear picture of retinal health and form the foundation of personalized care.

Is Diabetic Retinopathy Preventable with Lifestyle Changes?

Many patients ask, is diabetic retinopathy preventable? While not entirely avoidable, its progression can be slowed—or even stopped—with proactive management.

How to Prevent Diabetic Retinopathy and Protect Your Eyes

Here’s how to prevent diabetic retinopathy and safeguard your vision:

• Monitor blood sugar daily. Keeping your A1C below 7% dramatically lowers risk.
  
  
• Manage blood pressure and cholesterol. These factors affect retinal circulation.
  
  
• Eat a balanced diet. Focus on fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s for vascular health.
  
  
• Exercise regularly. Physical activity improves overall circulation and glucose control.
  
  
• Avoid smoking. Tobacco restricts blood flow to the retinal tissue.
  
  
• Schedule regular eye exams. Detection equals prevention.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, we help you create a realistic prevention plan tailored to your health and lifestyle.

Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment Options

Once diagnosed, diabetic retinopathy treatment focuses on stabilizing vision, stopping leakage, and reducing retinal swelling. With the right care, many patients maintain or even improve their sight.

How Is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated and Managed Over Time?

Treatment depends on the stage of disease and the severity of blood vessel damage. Common options include:

1. Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications such as Eylea or Lucentis block abnormal vessel growth and reduce fluid buildup.
   
   
2. Corticosteroid Implants: Used to control inflammation and macular swelling.
   
   
3. Laser Photocoagulation Therapy: Seals leaking vessels and prevents new ones from forming.
   
   
4. Vitrectomy: A surgical procedure that removes blood-filled vitreous gel to restore clearer vision.
   
   
5. Lifestyle and Glucose Management: Essential for preventing recurrence.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our board-certified retina specialist, Dr. Nathaniel Roybal, tailors every treatment plan to the patient’s unique needs and disease stage.

Diabetic Eye Surgery and When It’s Recommended for Vision Protection

When non-surgical treatments can no longer manage the condition, diabetic eye surgery may be necessary. Procedures like vitrectomy or retinal laser surgery can stop bleeding, remove scar tissue, and reattach the retina if it detaches due to traction.

These surgeries are typically performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting and have a high success rate for stabilizing vision.

If you’ve been told you may need surgery, trust Retina Consultants of New Mexico for comprehensive diabetic eye care and the latest surgical technology.

Your vision is worth protecting. Don’t wait until symptoms appear—contact us today to schedule your comprehensive diabetic eye exam and take the first step toward lasting eye health.

What is dry macular degeneration? It’s one of the most common causes of central vision loss among adults over 50—and understanding it early can make a world of difference. Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) gradually damages the macula, the central part of the retina that enables you to see fine details and colors clearly.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our specialists emphasize early detection and education to help patients protect their eyesight and preserve their quality of life. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or want to understand your risk factors, learning what dry macular degeneration is can be the first step toward proactive care and prevention.

What Does AMD Stand for and How It Relates to Vision Loss

AMD stands for Age-Related Macular Degeneration—a condition that affects the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. Over time, this area can deteriorate, making it difficult to read, recognize faces, or see objects clearly in front of you.

In dry AMD, small yellow deposits called drusen form beneath the retina. These drusen interfere with the retina’s ability to function properly, gradually blurring or fading central vision. Unlike the “wet” form, dry AMD does not involve leaking blood vessels—but it can still have a major impact on independence and daily activities.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, we emphasize that understanding what AMD stands for goes beyond more than just learning an acronym—it’s about recognizing how it impacts everyday vision and overall eye health..

Dry AMD Meaning and What It Reveals About the Condition

When people ask about the meaning of dry AMD, it’s important to understand that “dry” refers to the absence of fluid or blood leakage under the retina. Instead, the damage comes from gradual thinning and breakdown of macular tissue.

Over time, light-sensitive cells in the macula stop working correctly, leading to blurred or missing spots in your central vision. Peripheral (side) vision usually remains intact, which is why patients can still move around and navigate, but tasks like reading and driving become harder.

Learning what is dry AMD early allows you to take steps—through diet, eye protection, and regular exams—to slow the disease before it affects your quality of life.

What Causes Dry Macular Degeneration and How It Begins

Researchers continue to study what causes dry macular degeneration, but several key risk factors are well established. Age is the leading cause—most cases develop in adults over 50—but lifestyle and genetics play major roles too.

Primary causes and risk factors include:

• Aging: Natural retinal cell changes accumulate over time.
  
  
• Family history: A genetic predisposition increases your risk.
  
  
• Smoking: The toxins in cigarette smoke accelerate retinal damage.
  
  
• Cardiovascular disease: High blood pressure and cholesterol affect blood flow to the retina.
  
  
• Poor diet: Lack of antioxidants and omega-3s weakens retinal defenses.
  
  
• Sun exposure: Long-term UV exposure can contribute to retinal stress.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, we often explain to patients that what causes dry AMD involves a mix of internal and environmental factors. Fortunately, many of these factors—such as smoking and diet—can be managed and improved with healthy lifestyle choices.

What Are the Symptoms of Dry Macular Degeneration That You Should Watch For?

Early symptoms are subtle and easy to overlook, which is why regular eye exams are essential. The most common symptoms of dry macular degeneration include:

• Blurred or fuzzy vision
  
  
• Trouble reading small print or recognizing faces
  
  
• Needing brighter light for close-up tasks
  
  
• Difficulty adapting to dim light
  
  
• Colors appearing faded
  
  
• A blank or blurry spot near the center of your vision

Because these changes happen gradually, many patients don’t notice them until significant damage has occurred. If you experience any of these signs, schedule an eye exam with Retina Consultants of New Mexico immediately.

Dry AMD Stages and How the Condition Evolves in the Retina

Dry macular degeneration develops slowly over three main stages. Understanding these dry AMD stages helps you track your progress and work with your doctor to prevent worsening.

Stage 1: Early AMD
Drusen are present but small and few in number. Most people experience little or no vision loss at this stage.

Stage 2: Intermediate AMD
Drusen become larger, and pigment changes appear in the retina. Some mild vision distortion or difficulty reading may occur.

Stage 3: Advanced AMD
The macula’s light-sensitive cells break down significantly, causing noticeable central vision loss. In some cases, dry AMD may progress to the “wet” form, which is more aggressive.

Detecting Early Signs of Dry Macular Degeneration Before It Progresses

Detecting the early signs of dry macular degeneration is critical. Routine eye exams with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and retinal imaging can reveal drusen deposits and subtle pigment changes long before symptoms arise.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our specialists use advanced imaging technology to identify these signs early, helping patients take preventive action to preserve vision for as long as possible.

What Does Vision Look Like With Dry Macular Degeneration?

Patients often ask, what does vision look like with dry macular degeneration?

Imagine looking at a face or a sentence on a page—then seeing a blurry or faded spot in the center. The periphery remains clear, but the middle looks washed out or missing. Straight lines might appear slightly distorted, and colors seem dull.

This pattern of central vision loss can be frustrating but manageable with treatment and support. Many patients benefit from low-vision aids and adaptive lighting.

How Serious Is Dry Macular Degeneration and What It Means for Vision Health

How serious is dry macular degeneration? Although it typically progresses slowly, the long-term impact can be life-changing. Central vision loss affects reading, driving, and recognizing faces—core parts of daily independence.

Even though dry AMD doesn’t cause complete blindness, it can lead to significant visual disability if untreated. Early detection, monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments are key to slowing its progression.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, we emphasize education and consistent care because understanding how serious is dry macular degeneration helps patients take their condition seriously and follow through with preventive steps.

How Fast Does Dry AMD Progress and What To Expect Over Time

There’s no universal timeline for how fast dry AMD progresses—some patients experience stable vision for years, while others see changes more rapidly. Typically, progression occurs over many years, and not all patients reach the advanced stage.

Regular monitoring with a retina specialist ensures changes are detected early. At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our doctors track subtle shifts in your retina and adjust your management plan as needed.

How Common Is Dry Macular Degeneration Among Seniors?

Dry AMD is incredibly common among adults over 60. In fact, it accounts for roughly 85–90% of all AMD cases in the United States.

How common is dry macular degeneration? Nearly one in eight adults over 60 show early signs of it. As people live longer, these numbers are expected to increase—making prevention and early management even more important.

Regular exams at Retina Consultants of New Mexico can help seniors stay ahead of the disease and preserve healthy vision longer.

How To Prevent Dry Macular Degeneration With Simple Daily Habits

The good news is small, consistent habits can significantly lower your risk. Understanding how to prevent dry macular degeneration starts with protecting your eyes from damage and fueling them with the right nutrients.

Top prevention strategies include:

1. Quit smoking: Smoking is the most controllable risk factor.
   
   
2. Eat eye-healthy foods: Include dark leafy greens, berries, fish, and nuts.
   
   
3. Maintain blood pressure and cholesterol: Cardiovascular health affects retinal circulation.
   
   
4. Wear UV-protective sunglasses: Shield your eyes from harmful rays.
   
   
5. Get regular eye exams: Early detection allows for early action.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our specialists empower patients with prevention plans tailored to their needs and lifestyles.

What Vitamins Help Prevent Macular Degeneration Naturally?

Certain nutrients can protect retinal cells from oxidative stress. The AREDS2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2) formula is often recommended to reduce AMD progression risk.

Key supplements include:

• Vitamin C and E: Powerful antioxidants that support eye tissue.
  
  
• Zinc and copper: Support the metabolism of retinal cells.
  
  
• Lutein and zeaxanthin: Carotenoids that filter harmful light and protect the macula.
  
  
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, they help maintain healthy retinal membranes.

Knowing what vitamins help prevent macular degeneration allows you to strengthen your eye health naturally. However, always consult your retina specialist before starting supplements.

Is There a Cure for Dry Macular Degeneration or Just Long-Term Management?

Many patients wonder, is there a cure for dry macular degeneration? While there’s currently no permanent cure, there are effective management strategies that slow progression and help patients maintain usable vision.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, care focuses on monitoring disease progression, supporting retinal function, and helping patients adapt through vision aids and nutrition.

Dry AMD Treatment Options and How Specialists Manage the Condition

Dry AMD treatment aims to preserve vision rather than restore lost sight. Treatment approaches may include:

1. Nutritional Therapy (AREDS2 Supplements): Clinically proven to reduce progression risk in intermediate AMD.
   
   
2. Lifestyle Changes: Smoking cessation, UV protection, and diet improvements can significantly help.
   
   
3. Low Vision Rehabilitation: Magnifiers, high-contrast lighting, and digital tools help patients stay independent.
   
   
4. Monitoring and Regular Exams: OCT imaging and visual field testing allow your doctor to track even small changes.
   
   
5. Emerging Therapies: Research into stem cells and complement inhibitors shows promise for future treatments.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our team, led by Dr. Nathaniel Roybal, uses a patient-centered approach combining advanced diagnostics and compassionate care. Each plan is customized based on the stage of disease, lifestyle, and visual goals. Our mission is to provide world-class retinal care with compassion and expertise. Whether you’re seeking prevention advice or exploring advanced Dry Macular Degeneration Treatment In Albuquerque, our team is ready to help.

While dry AMD treatment cannot reverse existing damage, it can slow further deterioration—helping you retain the vision you have for as long as possible.

If you’ve been diagnosed or notice early changes, don’t wait and Contact us today! Our retina specialists in Albuquerque are here to support you with expert guidance and the latest treatment options.

Wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD) is a chronic eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed, straight-ahead vision. This occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and begin to leak blood or fluid, damaging light-sensitive cells and leading to distortion of vision or central vision loss.

Although the exact cause is not fully understood, wet AMD is closely linked to aging and genetic factors. The disease often develops from dry macular degeneration, a slower and more common form of the disease. When dry AMD transitions to the wet type, vision can decline rapidly without prompt medical attention.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, we emphasize the importance of early detection and patient education. Knowing what wet macular degeneration is—and how it progresses—helps patients take proactive steps to protect their eyesight.

Wet macular degeneration can threaten your central vision if left untreated, but early diagnosis and expert care can make a life-changing difference. At Retina Consultants of New Mexico in Albuquerque, our team provides advanced diagnostics and treatments to help patients preserve their sight and maintain their independence.

Understanding what wet macular degeneration is—and knowing when to seek care—can help you protect your vision. This guide explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available for patients in Albuquerque and the surrounding areas.

If you notice any changes in your central vision, such as blurriness, wavy lines, or difficulty recognizing faces, don’t wait. Contact Retina Consultants of New Mexico to schedule a consultation and get personalized care from a retina specialist.

What Is Wet Macular Degeneration?

The term “wet” macular degeneration comes from the fluid and blood that accumulate under the retina due to abnormal blood vessel growth. This process, called choroidal neovascularization (CNV), occurs when the body mistakenly tries to improve blood flow to the retina by creating new vessels. Unfortunately, these vessels are fragile and prone to leakage.

The resulting buildup of fluid damages the macula, leading to swelling, distortion, and the loss of sharp, detailed vision. Factors that may contribute include aging, genetics, smoking, and cardiovascular health.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our leading specialist, Dr. Nathaniel Roybal, offers wet macular degeneration treatments in Albuquerque designed to preserve and protect your eyesight.

Understanding What Is Wet AMD and How It Impacts Eye Health

Wet AMD can significantly affect your ability to read, drive, and perform everyday tasks. The damage occurs in the central part of your vision, while peripheral (side) vision usually remains intact.

The abnormal blood vessels involved in wet AMD are fragile and leak easily. As fluid accumulates beneath the macula, it causes swelling and thickening, distorting your vision. Straight lines may appear wavy, and faces may seem blurred.

For many patients, this condition affects not just their eyesight but also their confidence and quality of life. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment at Retina Consultants of New Mexico in Albuquerque are so essential—modern therapies can slow or even stop the disease’s progression.

What Are the Symptoms of Wet Macular Degeneration and How To Recognize Them

Wet AMD symptoms often appear suddenly and worsen quickly. Recognizing these early warning signs is critical for preventing long-term damage.

Common symptoms include:

• Distorted vision: Straight lines appear wavy or bent.
  
  
• Blurred central vision: A blurry or dark spot appears in the middle of your view.
  
  
• Difficulty recognizing faces: Faces become indistinct or distorted.
  
  
• Reduced color perception: Colors appear dull or faded.
  
  
• Dark or empty area in central vision: A gray, red, or black spot appears that doesn’t move.

What Are the Symptoms of Wet AMD That Require Immediate Attention

Any sudden change in your central vision warrants an urgent visit to a retina specialist. Seek immediate care if you experience:

• A sudden dark spot or blind area in your central vision
  
  
• Rapid distortion of straight lines or shapes
  
  
• Quick onset of blurred or warped vision

Quick action can make all the difference. Timely treatment can halt disease progression and significantly improve outcomes.

Why You Should Not Ignore Wet Macular Degeneration Symptoms

Ignoring wet AMD symptoms can lead to irreversible vision loss. Because this condition progresses so quickly, delaying care—even by a few weeks—can dramatically affect outcomes.

Early diagnosis allows your retina specialist to begin treatment before major damage occurs. If you notice any new visual distortions, contact Retina Consultants of New Mexico right away.

Your best defense against vision loss is awareness, prompt care, and ongoing monitoring.

What Causes Wet AMD and Who Is Most at Risk

Although researchers haven’t identified a single cause, wet AMD is influenced by both genetic and lifestyle factors.

Common risk factors include:

• Age: Most cases occur in adults over 50.
  
  
• Family history: Having relatives with AMD increases risk.
  
  
• Smoking: Smoking doubles the likelihood of developing AMD.
  
  
• Cardiovascular disease: High blood pressure and cholesterol affect retinal circulation.
  
  
• Race: Caucasians are statistically more likely to develop AMD.
  
  
• Obesity: Often linked to other risk factors that impact eye health.
  
  
• Sun exposure: UV light may damage retinal tissue; UV-blocking sunglasses help protect your eyes.

How Common Is Wet AMD Among Patients With Macular Degeneration

Approximately 10–15% of all macular degeneration cases become the “wet” form, but it accounts for nearly 90% of severe vision loss related to AMD.

That’s why routine eye exams are vital, especially for individuals with early signs of dry AMD. Regular monitoring at Retina Consultants of New Mexico helps detect the transition to wet AMD early—when treatments are most effective.

How Fast Does Wet AMD Progress

Wet AMD can progress in a matter of weeks or even days. Once abnormal vessels begin leaking, damage can occur rapidly. Without treatment, the macula’s light-sensitive cells deteriorate, resulting in permanent central vision loss.

Prompt anti-VEGF therapy and consistent follow-up appointments can drastically slow or stop disease progression.

How Is Wet AMD Diagnosed During a Retina Exam

A thorough retina examination is the only way to confirm wet AMD. During your visit at Retina Consultants of New Mexico, your specialist will conduct several diagnostic tests:

• Visual acuity test: Measures clarity of sight at various distances.
  
  
• Amsler grid: Detects distorted or wavy lines—an early indicator of macular changes.
  
  
• Dilated eye exam: Allows detailed visualization of the retina and macula.
  
  
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT): Captures cross-sectional images of retinal layers to reveal fluid or swelling.
  
  
• Fluorescein angiography: Uses a fluorescent dye to identify leaking or abnormal blood vessels.

These tools give Dr. Roybal and his team a precise picture of retinal health, allowing for timely and targeted treatment.

Can Wet Macular Degeneration Be Treated With Modern Therapies?

Yes—modern retinal therapies have revolutionized how specialists manage wet AMD. While there’s no permanent cure, current treatments can stabilize or improve vision for most patients.

Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration Treatments Explained

The cornerstone of wet AMD management is anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) therapy. This involves injecting medication into the eye to block the protein responsible for abnormal vessel growth and leakage.

Treatment overview:

• Procedure: Performed in-office under local anesthesia; most patients feel little to no discomfort.
  
  
• Frequency: Injections are typically administered every 4–8 weeks.
  
  
• Goal: Stop fluid leakage, reduce swelling, and prevent vision loss.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico, our leading specialist, Dr. Nathaniel Roybal, offers wet macular degeneration treatments in Albuquerque that combine advanced imaging with individualized care. These therapies can slow disease progression, stabilize vision, and, in many cases, improve sight over time.

While anti-VEGF therapy isn’t a cure, it’s one of the most successful medical treatments in modern ophthalmology. Ongoing research continues to improve outcomes and convenience for patients.

Living With Wet Macular Degeneration

Being diagnosed with wet AMD can be overwhelming, but support and proactive care make a difference. Many patients maintain functional vision and independence through consistent treatment and adaptive strategies.

Tips for living with wet AMD:

• Follow your treatment schedule: Missing injections can allow the disease to worsen.
  
  
• Use low-vision aids: Magnifiers and electronic readers enhance daily activities.
  
  
• Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses outdoors and maintain healthy blood pressure.
  
  
• Stay connected: Support groups and counseling can help you adjust emotionally.

Remember—wet AMD doesn’t have to mean the end of your vision. With ongoing monitoring and expert treatment, you can continue to enjoy a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wet Macular Degeneration

Patients in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico often have questions about how wet macular degeneration develops, how it differs from dry AMD, and what treatment options are available at Retina Consultants of New Mexico to preserve their sight.

What is the difference between wet and dry macular degeneration?

Wet AMD involves fluid leakage from abnormal blood vessels under the retina, while dry AMD develops gradually and doesn’t involve fluid buildup. Both affect central vision, but wet AMD progresses much faster.

Can wet macular degeneration be cured?

Currently, there is no permanent cure for wet AMD. However, anti-VEGF injections and ongoing monitoring at Retina Consultants of New Mexico can halt or even improve vision loss for many patients.

When should I see a retina specialist?

If you experience blurred or distorted central vision or if straight lines appear wavy, contact Retina Consultants of New Mexico to schedule a consultation immediately. Early intervention provides the best chance for preserving sight.

How often will I need treatment for wet AMD?

Most patients require injections every 4–8 weeks initially, but intervals may lengthen over time depending on response. Dr. Roybal will personalize your plan for long-term success.

Can lifestyle changes help prevent wet AMD from progressing?

Yes. Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, and controlling blood pressure all contribute to better retinal health and may slow disease progression.

Protecting Your Vision Starts With Expert Care

Wet macular degeneration is serious, but with prompt diagnosis and consistent treatment, vision loss can often be minimized or prevented.

At Retina Consultants of New Mexico in Albuquerque, our experienced team—led by Dr. Nathaniel Roybal, MD, PhD—provides comprehensive care for patients facing retinal conditions. Whether you’ve noticed new vision changes or have already been diagnosed with wet AMD, our specialists are here to help.

Contact Retina Consultants of New Mexico to schedule a consultation today. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan that helps protect and preserve your vision for years to come.