Symptoms
Macular degeneration can only be diagnosed by examining the retina. This must be undertaken by an eye care professional.
If you have any of the following symptoms, you should seek help immediately from an eye care professional:
- Difficulty in reading or doing any other activity which requires fine vision
- Distortion where straight lines appear wavy or bent
- Distinguishing faces becomes a problem
- Dark patches or empty spaces appearing in the centre of your vision
The need for increased illumination, sensitivity to glare, decreased night vision and poor colour sensitivity may also indicate that there is something wrong.
Early detection is important
The early detection of any form of MD is crucial. MD can cause many different symptoms. In its early stages it may go unnoticed. Symptoms should never be dismissed as part of just ‘getting older’.
Detecting changes early allows you to take steps to slow down the progression of macular degeneration. The Amsler Grid is an important tool in detecting any changes in vision.