Symptoms of age-related macular degeneration Distortion of objects and lines Blurring Decreased colour vision Increaesd glare sensitivity A dark spot in the centre of a visual field surrounded by a distorted image
Risk factors Old age Family history Gender (women have higher risk) Race (Caucasians have higher risk) Light-coloured irises High blood pressure High-blood cholesterol Smoking Exposure to sunlight Diet low in anti-oxidants
For a simple home test to see if you may have AMD, try using the Amsler Grid attached below. The Amsler Grid is a test for subtle abnormalities in the central vision caused by fluid in the sub-retinal space. Do note that this test is not a substitute for diagnosis by an eye care provider.
To find out more For more information from experts on AMD and treatment, sign up for the public forum that will be held on June 9 at 1.30pm at Alexandra Hospital. The forum will be held in conjunction with the launch of the Macular Degeneration Society.
To register, call Anne at 6238 7387 or visit www.mds-singapore.org
Instructions 1. Do not remove glasses or contacts you normally wear for reading. 2. Position your eyes about 33cm from the grid in a well-lit room. 3. Cover one eye with your hand and focus on the center dot with the uncovered eye. 4) If you see wavy, broken or distorted lines, or blurred or missing areas of vision, you may be displaying symptoms of AMD and should contact your eye care provider immediately. 5) Repeat for the other eye.
