AMD: Monitoring & Home Care

Monitoring Your AMD Between Appointments

If you have age-related macular degeneration (AMD), whether dry or wet, regular home monitoring is one of the most important things you can do to protect your vision.

The Amsler Grid

The Amsler grid is a simple square grid used to detect changes in your central vision.

How to use it:

1. Wear your reading glasses if you use them
2. Cover one eye completely
3. Hold the grid at normal reading distance (approximately 30cm)
4. Look directly at the central dot
5. Without moving your eyes, note whether any of the lines appear wavy, blurred, distorted, or missing
6. Repeat with the other eye
7. Do this every day — it takes under a minute

If you notice any new distortion, blurring, or a missing area that was not there before, call 01732 756789 immediately — do not wait for your next appointment.

Alexa Home Monitoring (Notal Vision)

Some patients are provided with a home OCT monitoring device (Notal Vision Alexa). This device takes a retinal scan at home and sends the data directly to the clinic. It is used for patients at high risk of wet AMD conversion. If you have been given this device, use it as directed — the clinic will contact you if a scan shows changes requiring attention.

When to Call Before Your Next Appointment

Do not wait for your scheduled appointment if you notice:

• Sudden blurring of central vision in either eye
• Straight lines (doorframes, tiles, text) appearing wavy or bent
• A new grey, dark, or blank area in your central vision
• Colours appearing washed out or different between eyes

All of these may be signs that wet AMD has developed or that existing wet AMD has become active. Early treatment gives the best chance of preserving vision.

General Advice

• Do not smoke — smoking is the single most modifiable risk factor for AMD progression
• Consider AREDS2 supplements if your consultant has recommended them (Macushield Gold or equivalent)
• Eat a diet rich in leafy green vegetables and oily fish
• Protect your eyes from UV light with sunglasses outdoors