AMSLER GRID

WHAT IS AN AMSLER GRID?
An Amsler Grid is a tool that Optometrists use to monitor for changes in your central vision. It is a specially designed grid that is held 30cm from the face and used with one eye covered to detect changes in your vision for each eye separately.

Your central vision is controlled by your macula. When changes occur to the macula, there are subtle signs that can be detected when looking at an Amsler Grid.

An Amsler Grid can also be used at home and any changes should be reported to your Optometrist.

WHAT CONDITIONS DOES IT MONITOR?
The Amsler Grid monitors for conditions that affect the macula. The main pathologies that we monitor are:

1. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) - This is an age-related condition that involves a build-up of waste material (called drusen) beneath the macula. In the early stages, this creates bumps under the macula, which when large enough, causes lines on the Amsler Grid to appear wavy.

2. Epiretinal Membranes (ERMs) - these occur when a thin elastic film forms over the macula. Occasionally, due to the elasticity of this film, it can contract and cause the macula to become distorted. When this occurs, one might experience wavy lines or missing patches on the grid.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I MONITOR AT HOME?
This can vary depending on what your Optometrist recommends. A general rule is to use the Amsler Grid once a month.

Below you will find a PDF of an Amsler Grid with instructions to print and use at home.