How to Check Your Own Eyes for Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a debilitating disease that can be devastating, but there are tools to help you detect the disease early and seek out treatment. This video is just one of many that offers health and wellness tips at bit.ly/2j1jiqn

Macular degeneration is a serious health risk, especially for seniors who are over 65 years old. Because macular degeneration is the single biggest cause of blindness in the United States, doctors recommend that seniors use new tools and technology to help detect this disease and other vision problems early.
It’s worth noting that macular degeneration develops in two varieties: “Dry Macular Degeneration” and “Wet Macular Degeneration.” Wet Macular Degeneration is worse because it can develop very quickly. Fortunately, doctors and the medical community have developed new tools to allow patients to self-monitor the quality of their vision.

The most common and basic tool that optometrists and other eye specialists recommend is known as the “Amsler Grid.” Developed by a Swiss ophthalmologist during World War II, the grid looks very much like a miniaturized checker board. Patients are urged to cover one eye, look at the grid, and note any wavy lines, missing grids, or blank spaces in the board. This can be an effective way to self-diagnose the potential for Wet Macular Degeneration.

Computer technology and research have also produced new electronic versions of the Amsler Grid test that automate the test to make it more specific and sensitive to a variety of conditions. The most common electronic device is a freestanding device, separate from a computer, known as the 4C Home Monitoring Device manufactured by Notal Vision.

Any trained and licensed eye care provider will have access to the paper Amsler Grid test, or they can also be downloaded from the Internet. Eye care providers can provide a prescription for computerized tests or special equipment, although this step usually requires a firm diagnosis for Dry Macular Degeneration.

Learn more about macular degeneration:
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Disclaimer: This content is for entertainment purposes only and it is not meant to be relied on as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your physician before starting any exercise or dietary program or taking any other action respecting your health. In case of a medical emergency, call 911.

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