Amsler Grid

Do people with optic nerve drusen report amsler grid irregularities?  I have optic nerve drusen and I report two small "bumps" in each eye when looking at a very small, fine amsler grid.  The grid has to be very small or I do not report any unusual vision.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Some do, most don't
JCH MD

[Diggitty]

Is that a cause of concern for on opthamologist?  Does that mean that my nerve drusen are more advanced?  Thanks!

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

No its not specific to the drusen, It could be macular problems. Drusen usually affect the visual field more than the macula. Discuss with your eye MD

JCH MD

[Diggitty]

After your last comment I went back to my eye md, and showed him on an amsler grid where my spots where and he dialated my eyes to take another look.  He said everything looks fine and asked why I was so concerned.  He told me that there are a lot of people walking around with optic nerve drusen and are doing just fine and not to worry about it so much.  He did not mention why I have small amsler grid irregularities.  My next yearly apt is coming up and I will again mention to him that I have the same amsler grid irregularities and multiple floaters in each eye.  I know that I am scheduled for different testing which concerns my peripheral vision but should I ask for any other test to find a solution for my small distortions that appear to be a separate issue?  Thank you so much!

[Diggitty]

Your insight to to the above question would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks!

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

You have two choices:  1 continue testing Amsler daily and go back if something changes. 2. Get a second opinion, possibly with a retina Eye MD ophthalmologist. Find one near you at www.aao.org

JCH MD

[Diggitty]

Thank you Dr. Hagan, as I have scheduled an apt. for a second opinion with a retinal specialist.  One more question,  when I stare at the amsler grid, after about 15 to 20 seconds all the lines start to look not so strait and kind of shaky.  Is this normal and I shouldn't stare too long at the grid or another thing to bring up to the Dr.?  Thanks!

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

First couple of seconds are the most important. Discuss with the Eye MD you'll see and good luck
JCH MD