| By looking at the Amsler grid, with one eye, you | | | | 1. Wear your regular reading glasses |
| can check to see if there is any changes in the | | | | 2. Use the same lighting each time |
| way you see the grid. | | | | 3. Hold the Amsler grid at arms length |
| Some of the things you would look for are: | | | | 4. Cover one eye. |
| - Wavy Lines, crooked or distorted lines | | | | 5. With the uncovered eye, stare at the black dot |
| - Dark Spots or holes on the grid | | | | in the center of the grid. |
| Blurriness | | | | 6. You should be able to see the center black dot |
| By noticing any changes in how the grid appears, | | | | and the four corners and sides of the grid. The |
| you may be able to detect any new blood vessel | | | | lines should appear to be straight and continuous |
| growth in the macula. Early detection of leaking | | | | from top to bottom and side to side. |
| blood vessels will allow your physician to treat | | | | 7. Now test your other eye. |
| them with laser. For laser treatment to be | | | | If you notice any |
| effective, early detection of wet macular | | | | - wavy lines, |
| degeneration is critical. Patients who have the dry | | | | - dark spots or |
| form of macular degeneration should regularly | | | | - distortions |
| check their vision, as it can develop into the wet | | | | - contact your ophthalmologist immediately. |
| form. | | | | You may get a free macular degeneration grid |
| If you do notice any changes in your vision, | | | | from your ophthalmologist or you go to the link |
| contact your eye care specialist right away. | | | | below to find out how to get a free magnetic |
| How to Use the Amsler Grid at Home | | | | Amsler grid. |