The first line of defense for macular degeneration is awareness. A simple test of your vision will alert you to any changes that may indicate a problem with macular degeneration or a worsening of your condition. This common test is known as the Amsler Grid.

Instructions for using the amsler grid as following:

• Test your vision with adequate lighting.
• Wear your reading glasses or look through the reading portion of your bifocals (if you normally read with spectacles).
• Hold the Amsler grid at normal reading distance (about 14 inches).
• Cover one eye at a time with the palm of your hand.
• Stare at the center dot of the chart at all times.
• Do not let your eye drift from the center dot.

1. Are any of the lines crooked or bent? 2. Are any of the boxes different in size or shape from the others? 3. Are any of the lines wavy, missing, blurry, or discolored? (Note: If using a rectangular card like this, you should check each eye with the card held both vertically and horizontally.)

Assessment Summary:- If the answer to any of these questions is "yes" (and this is a new finding for you), you should contact your doctor immediately for an examination Click Here for Referal information. Sometimes these changes may mean that there is leakage or bleeding in the back of the eye causing swelling of the retina.