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The Amsler grid is a chart that can reveal signs of wet macular degeneration (MD). The grid is a tool for monitoring the center of your visual field, by detecting disturbances caused by changes in your retina.

To use the grid, do the following:

1. Sit in an area with good lighting, and hold the chart at eye level and at a comfortable distance. You may find it convenient to attach the grid to a wall at eye level and stand 12 inches to 14 inches away (comfortable reading distance).
2. If you wear glasses, keep them on. If you wear bifocals, use the bottom or reading portion of the lens.
3. Cover one eye completely.
4. Stare with your other eye at the central dot on the grid. While doing this, observe the pattern of vertical and horizontal lines.
5. Repeat the test with the other eye.

If you experience any of these changes, make an appointment with your eye care specialist immediately:

• Blurring or gray areas.
• Distortion or wavy lines.
• Holes or spots in any areas of the grid.

If you do have wet MD, use the grid every day to check for changes in your vision. On the first day, mark with a pencil any areas of distortion, any gray or blurry areas, or any blank spots. This will be your baseline pattern for that eye. Each day after that, repeat the test. If you notice any new areas of distortion, new wavy lines or enlargement of blank spots (especially toward the center), see your eye care specialist right away.

For  more  information:  Please   consult  your  physician  on  your  next  visit.