Home vision tests

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Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Visual acuity test

Overview

Risks

Results

Home vision tests

Alternative Names:

Visual acuity test - home; Amsler grid test

Normal Values:

Distance vision test: All letters on the 20/20 line read correctly.
Near vision test: The ability to read line labeled 20/20 or J-1.
Amsler grid test: All lines appear straight and unbroken with no distorted or missing areas.

What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal results may mean there is a vision problem or eye disease and that you should have a professional eye examination.

Distance vision test: If the 20/20 line is not correctly read, it may be a sign of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, or other eye abnormality.

Near vision test: Not being able to read the small type may be a sign of aging vision (presbyopia ).

Amsler grid test: If the grid appears distorted or broken, there may be a problem with the retina.

Review Date: 8/11/2005
Reviewed By: Edward B. Feinberg, MD, MPH, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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