It is important for people with macular conditions (such as macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema, macular pucker / epiretinal membrane and vitreo-macular traction syndrome) to self-monitor their macular function on a regular basis. Early detection of deterioration in these conditions allow earlier treatment in preventing vision loss.
Self-monitoring of one’s macular function is simple. Below is a copy of the ‘Amsler Grid’ that you can use to do that. Click here to print off a copy. Alternatively, you could also use objects around the house that have straight lines (e.g. tiles on bathroom walls, window blinds) to do the same.
Instructions on using the Amsler Grid:
- Wear your usual reading glasses
- Cover one eye.
- Hold the Amsler grid under good lighting at your normal reading distance.
- Look directly at the dot in the center of the grid with your uncovered eye.
- Observe how the lines and squares appear around the dot. All of the lines should be straight and the squares of a uniform size.
- Test the other eye.
If there are significant changes in the appearance of the grid where the lines appear bent / wavy, or if there are new blind spots, you should contact your GP, Optometrist or Ophthalmologist promptly. Below is an example how the Amsler Grid could appear to someone with macular disease (e.g. ‘Wet’macular degeneration)