---
title: What causes wavy lines?
description: "Seeing wavy lines instead of straight ones is a hallmark of metamorphopsia. It usually indicates macular or retinal pathology. ## Macular Causes Age‑related macular degeneration, epiretinal membrane, macular oedema, and central serous chorioretinopathy commonly distort central vision. Traction, fluid, or…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/symptoms-signs/what-causes-wavy-lines/"
updated: "2025-12-12"
category: "Symptoms & Signs"
---

# What causes wavy lines?

Seeing wavy lines instead of straight ones is a hallmark of metamorphopsia. It usually indicates macular or retinal pathology.

## Macular Causes

Age‑related macular degeneration, epiretinal membrane, macular oedema, and central serous chorioretinopathy commonly distort central vision. Traction, fluid, or scarring in the macula disrupts the orderly arrangement of photoreceptors.

- Patients may first notice distortion when reading or looking at tiles or door frames
- Symptoms are often more obvious when one eye is tested at a time
- Onset can be gradual or relatively sudden depending on cause
- Amsler grid testing highlights wavy or missing lines

## Urgency

New wavy lines should prompt prompt macular evaluation with OCT imaging. Early treatment of many macular diseases improves prognosis.

- Intravitreal injections, laser, or surgery may be indicated
- Systemic control of diabetes or blood pressure supports outcomes
- Delays risk permanent central vision loss
- Low‑vision aids help those with residual distortion