Why Monitor My Vision?

Most of you by now have probably heard of a macular degeneration grid, or better known as an Amsler Grid. Dr. Michael A. Samuel, author of Macular Degeneration: A Complete Guide for Patients and Their Families, states that "This (the Amsler grid) is a measure designed to catch the onset of wet AMD as early in its progression as possible, when medical measures have the best chance of success."

What is a Macular Degeneration Grid?

1. Wavy or Distorted Lines

2. Dark Spots, Gray Spots or Blank Areas on the grid

3. Blurred Lines or Missing Lines

If any of these macular degeneration symptoms are detected, it is important that you report them to your eye specialist immediately. Any of these can be signs of wet macular degeneration or in other words, new and leaky blood vessels may be growing in your macula. By getting early treatment, you may be able to prevent further loss of vision.

How Often Should I Monitor my Vision?

Dr. Lylas Mogk suggests that you check it daily if you have early onset wet macular degeneration.

She also writes in her book, Macular Degeneration: The Complete Guide to Saving and Maximizing Your Sight," ...checking your vision daily is not necessary for many people, particularly those with very advanced dry macular degeneration."

How Do I Check My Vision?

2. Use the same lighting each time

3. Hold the Amsler grid at arms length

4. Cover one eye.

5. With the uncovered eye, stare at the black dot in the center of the grid.

6. You should be able to see the center black dot and the four corners and sides of the grid. The lines should appear to be straight and continuous from top to bottom and side to side.

6. Now test your other eye.

To find out how you can get a free Amsler Grid to test your vision at home click here:

Macular Degeneration Grid

Thanks so much for subscribing to Macular Degeneration News.

Leslie Degner, RN, BSN

Better Health for Better Vision