Amsler grid

22 Feb Amsler grid

Various eye diseases (like AMD) cause the central vision to change over time. One may not notice these changes when they happen especially when only a single eye is affected at a time. But it is important to catch vision changes as soon as possible. Treating them early can help slow or stop further loss of sight. This is where an Amsler grid used every day to monitor the vision really helps.

How to use the Amsler grid:

In good light, the grid is held about 12–15 inches away from the eyes (normal reading distance). Reading glasses if normally used, are to be worn.
One eye is covered. The central dot in the grid is looked at with the open eye. One needs to notice if any of the lines look bent or wavy or if any part of the grid looks blurry, dim, or out of shape.

Now the other eye is covered and vision is tested the same way again.

A retina specialist needs to be contacted right away if any lines or parts of the grid look wavy, blurry, or dim.