Before beginning the test at home, it is recommended to obtain a baseline of your vision during an eye exam, so you can easily monitor any changes to your vision.įollow these instructions on how to use the Amsler grid for the most effective results: Testing your vision using the Amsler grid is simple to do. In the center of the grid, there is a small dot, used as a focus point. The Amsler grid looks like graph paper- typically containing black lines on a white background, though sometimes many contain white lines on a black background. You can find the Amsler grid below, or you can ask your eye doctor for a copy of the grid at your next appointment. The Amsler grid can also be used by patients at home, to keep track of any new changes in their vision, such as wavy lines or blind spots. Regular monitoring of your vision will enable early detection and early treatment of the disease, before significant vision loss can occur. If you have been diagnosed with dry AMD, it is important to monitor your vision on a weekly basis to detect visual changes and progression of the disease to wet AMD. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The Amsler grid is a tool that is used by eye doctors to help detect early signs of retinal disease such as macular degeneration, and monitor disease progression and any visual changes that develop. Your eye doctor will examine your eyes to identify any changes and conduct a series of tests to ensure that your vision hasn’t been affected.ĭuring your eye exam, your eye doctor may perform and of the following tests: If you notice any changes in your vision, consult with your eye doctor as soon as possible. While there is no known cure for AMD, early detection can help you get the treatment you need to slow down the progression of the disease and preserve your existing vision.
Macular degeneration (AMD) is the number one cause of low vision, and accounts for more than 8% of worldwide blindness. So, it’s important to be persistent in monitoring your condition daily with this simple, easy to use Amsler grid.Early detection of eye disease is crucial when it comes to protecting your eye health and vision. This detailed recognition of your own eye sight puts you in a good position to identify when changes occur and contact your doctor for treatment.Ĭhanges in vision can happen gradually and any loss cannot be reversed. Since you’ve been testing yourself every day, you’ll become familiar with what is and isn’t normal for your vision. The lines might turn wavy or dark, a blurry black spot might appear, or parts may appear missing. You might experience a variety of changes.
When To Contact Your Ophthalmologist, Based on Amsler Grid ResultsĬontact your ophthalmologist immediately when you notice any change in your self-test results with the chart. Any distortions in the grid, like wavy or missing lines or spots of black blur, are important to note for any changes. Stare at the dot in the center of the chart for 10 seconds.This is so that, if the vision in your other eye is stronger, it can’t compensate. If possible, place a piece of tape on the floor marking the spot you’ll use each day. It’s important to stand in the same place every time you test. If you usually wear reading glasses, put them on. To make it easy to remember to test, hang your chart in a visible spot, such as on the fridge. Once you have a good, clean printed sheet, tape the chart to the wall at eye level in a well-lit area without glare. Daily tests with the Amsler grid are helpful, but should not be a replacement for regular visits to your doctor.Įnsure that your printed chart is free of aberrations caused by low ink or misaligned paper. Most vision loss cannot be restored, so it’s important to be vigilant about regular checks to catch progression early and to be able to effectively treat vision. Vision loss caused by AMD and other retinal conditions happens so slowly that it may not be noticeable without careful, standardized testing. This self-test can also benefit patients with several other retinal conditions such as epiretinal membranes (ERM), macular holes, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion. Since patients with dry AMD can develop wet AMD, it’s a good idea to use an Amsler grid to monitor vision changes. There are two types of AMD: dry, the most common version, and wet, the more severe and advanced version. One condition this test is useful for is macular degeneration (AMD), the slow deterioration of the retina that causes central vision to become less colorful, blurry, or distorted. An Amsler grid is an important vision testing tool that you can easily use in your home to track the progression of vision conditions affecting the retina or the back part of the eye.