Signs and Symptoms of AMD
Don't let AMD go unnoticed
In its early stages, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may not cause any noticeable symptoms. The time when symptoms appear, and whether the disease progresses quickly or slowly, varies from person to person. Some people experience a rapid deterioration of their central vision, or the images they see directly in front of them. Others experience a gradual change in their sight. In most cases, a good degree of peripheral, or side, vision remains.
Macular degeneration may affect one eye or both eyes. People with dry AMD in only one eye often do not notice any changes in their vision, since the healthy eye may compensate for the affected eye. Someone with AMD in one eye may still be able to drive, read, or see details.
Symptoms of AMD may include:
- A dark or blank spot may appear in your central vision
- Straight lines may appear wavy or crooked
- Faces can begin to blur
- It can become harder to distinguish colours
For illustration purposes only.
As shown here, a person with distortion will see wavy or irregular lines in an area of the grid. A person with a blind spot or scotoma cannot see a portion of the grid.
Monitor your vision by using the Amsler Grid
Your eye care professional may recommend that you monitor your vision at home by using the Amsler Grid. This simple tool is designed to alert you to any changes in your central vision. Click Here for printable version.
