Does anyone have experience with holes in the retina?

[Granny_Weatherwax]

Just popped in to ask and find out if anyone has experience with these.

 

DS went to the optometrist for a routine checkup and the doctor discovered a retinal hole.

 

He has scheduled DS for a follow up and a referral to a surgeon for repair.

 

He said the best case scenario is a loss of peripheral vision and the worst case is partial to total blindness in that eye.

 

I am trying not to panic but this breaks my heart.

 

I am hoping someone has had a retinal hole that miraculously repaired itself.

 

Please give me some good (or comforting news). 

 

 

[Tiramisu]

I don't have any experience but I have heard of issues like detached retina, that seem to come with tears, that are associated with inherited connective tissue disorders like Marfan Syndrome or possibly Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. If you knew what factors may have contributed to this, perhaps you could find a support group with members who would share their experiences.

 

I'm sorry you're going through this and hope for the best outcome for your ds.  :grouphug:

[Ailaena]

 

I don't know much about your hole, but my boyfriend had a couple of small holes in his retina, cause unknown. They left one alone, but laser repaired thx other one so it wouldn't tear any further. That was about a year ago, and he has had no change in vision or any issues, at all.

 

I'm so sorry you're all going through this, and I hope it works out for the best.

[Sharpie]

I have had a small tear in my retina that was fixed by laser surgery.  I am very near sighted and the retina specialist indicated that contributed.  I haven't had a change in vision since.

[Jean in Newcastle]

Have you taken him to a retinal specialist?  My dd has a tumor in her retina and the retinal specialists have been very good.  

[Granny_Weatherwax]

Thanks for the replies.

 

We are planning on taking DS to a specialist as soon as the referral is approved with the insurance co.  I don't know how long that will take. 

 

DS has had some fairly severe eye tics associated with the TS and we both wonder if that may have played a part in creating the tear. 

 

I can't wait to get the referral approved so we can at least develop an action plan and have some of DS's questions answered.

[Jean in Newcastle]

With loss of vision as a possible outcome, I would be hammering on the insurance co's door.  I would not be passive about this.  And I do understand this kind of a battle.  We went through it with dd and her retinal tumor - though our battle was with getting the doctor to sign off on things in a timely manner.  I was on the phone for hours and did not back down for anything.  Dh was the one who turned the tide by camping out in the doctor's office until the forms were signed.  

[Granny_Weatherwax]

With loss of vision as a possible outcome, I would be hammering on the insurance co's door.  I would not be passive about this.  And I do understand this kind of a battle.  We went through it with dd and her retinal tumor - though our battle was with getting the doctor to sign off on things in a timely manner.  I was on the phone for hours and did not back down for anything.  Dh was the one who turned the tide by camping out in the doctor's office until the forms were signed.  

 

Our problem was that we found out late Thursday evening and the process wasn't started until Friday.  Now we must sit through the weekend and begin the phone calls tomorrow morning.  I am hopeful that it won't take long and we'll have an appointment on the books soon. 

 

I feel for DS.  He is trying not to think about the hole but the stress of knowing about the hole coupled with the stress of trying to not think about it is making him tic which is causing him stress because he isn't sure the tics won't make the hole worse.

 

The good thing is that his grandparents will be here next week for a family celebration.  I hope that the anticipation of a fun family visit will give him something to look forward to and help take his mind off of the wait.

[Jean in Newcastle]

:grouphug:   Our problem spanned a weekend too.  A weekend from hell since we had been told that dd needed an immediate brain scan by the specialists, which almost needed an act of God to authorize.  (OK - slight exaggeration there but not much. . . )  Waiting for these kinds of things are hard.  I'll be thinking of you tomorrow.

[Lanny]

>DS went to the optometrist for a routine checkup and the doctor discovered a retinal hole.

 

Two of my first cousins are Optometrists. I have never been to one. They are NOT Medical Doctors.

 

Your DS needs to be seen by an Opthalmologist (an M.D. with advanced training in treating eye diseases) IMMEDIATELY.

 

You need an Opthalmologist who is a specialist in problems of the Retina.

 

Those are VERY delicate problems.

 

I hope you live in or near a very large city, where there is an eye hospital, and your DS can be seen by one or more Opthalmologists, if necessary.

 

Much GL to your DS with this issue!

[SJ.]

>DS went to the optometrist for a routine checkup and the doctor discovered a retinal hole.

 

Two of my first cousins are Optometrists. I have never been to one. They are NOT Medical Doctors.

 

Your DS needs to be seen by an Opthalmologist (an M.D. with advanced training in treating eye diseases) IMMEDIATELY.

 

You need an Opthalmologist who is a specialist in problems of the Retina.

 

Those are VERY delicate problems.

 

I hope you live in or near a very large city, where there is an eye hospital, and your DS can be seen by one or more Opthalmologists, if necessary.

 

Much GL to your DS with this issue!

:iagree: 

 

I am surprised you didn't get an immediate referral to a pediatric opthalmologist.  If your insurance needs a referral I would contact your pediatrician for one.  One of my boys has an eye disease and sees a pediatric opthalmologist, my regular health insurance pays for it versus our standard eye care insurance.

[Granny_Weatherwax]

>DS went to the optometrist for a routine checkup and the doctor discovered a retinal hole.

 

Two of my first cousins are Optometrists. I have never been to one. They are NOT Medical Doctors.

 

Your DS needs to be seen by an Opthalmologist (an M.D. with advanced training in treating eye diseases) IMMEDIATELY.

 

You need an Opthalmologist who is a specialist in problems of the Retina.

 

Those are VERY delicate problems.

 

I hope you live in or near a very large city, where there is an eye hospital, and your DS can be seen by one or more Opthalmologists, if necessary.

 

Much GL to your DS with this issue!

Our town doesn't have many specialists and no eye hospital.  The good thing is we are within driving distance of two major medical centers (Mayo and Iowa City) and will take him to one of those.

 

Our optometrist has been up front about his limitations and he is the one who began the referral process.  He has a list of opthamologists he trusts and would use.  We just have to see who is on the approved provider list for the hospitals we want to go to.

 

Thanks for sh

[Lanny]

OP Wonderful that your Optometrist discovered this problem. A problem with a Retina is VERY VERY VERY critical. You should find out where the nearest EYE hospital is located, and take your DS there, immediately. You need to go to a place where there are a lot of Opthalmologists, in the same place. And, where they are very well equipped, if your DS does need surgery. This is NOT a trivial thing.  One Opthamologist in the eye hospital may send your DS to others, for their opinions...  And, they have special testing available, for different types of eye problems, in an eye hospital.

 

It could be that there are many types of Opthalmologists with offices in the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. If so, that might be a possibility.

 

Please, consider this to be a medical EMERGENCY...

 

The eye hospital in Cali, where our Opthamologist has her office, has an E.R.  If your DS was here, I would suggest you take him to the E.R. there, immediately...    Any good eye hospital in the USA will have an E.R., where you can walk in with your DS and begin to get help for him.

 

With regard to your insurance and authorization for a referral, this is an EMERGENCY. Worry about your son's vision first and the authorization and payment later...  I know, that is easier said/written than done...

 

Once, in 1999, my wife needed an emergency D&C, after a miscarriage.  The insurance company normally would take several days, to authorize that procedure. They wanted me to wait for the authorization. That was the ONLY time I was NOT willing to wait a few days for an authorization, which, normally, would not have been a problem.  I threatened them with legal action and then they found someone to sign the authorization...

 

The situation your DS is in is extremely critical. You cannot wait for an authorization. Please find out where the nearest eye hospital to you is and go there with him.

 

If your Optometrist is correct, and your DS has a problem with a Retina, that is certainly something that can lead to permanent loss of vision.

 

GL to your DS.

[TechWife]

Honestly, this is an emergency. You need to go to a regular hospital ER and then they will call the opthamologist that is on call for their facility. That ophthalmologist will call in a retinal specialist. I am considered high risk for retinal tears and/or detachment and this is what I was told to do if I suspect a tear and their office is closed.  Every time I get my eyes checked they review this with me. 

[ThatHomeschoolDad]

Have you taken him to a retinal specialist?  My dd has a tumor in her retina and the retinal specialists have been very good.  

 

Did they diagnose OM?  That's how mine started.

[Jean in Newcastle]

Did they diagnose OM?  That's how mine started.

What is OM?  

[ThatHomeschoolDad]

Our town doesn't have many specialists and no eye hospital.  The good thing is we are within driving distance of two major medical centers (Mayo and Iowa City) and will take him to one of those.

 

Our optometrist has been up front about his limitations and he is the one who began the referral process.  He has a list of opthamologists he trusts and would use.  We just have to see who is on the approved provider list for the hospitals we want to go to.

 

Thanks for sh

 

Yes, do not wait.

Yes, go to a retina surgeon -- ophthalmologists are front-of-the-eye docs.

 

Blind spots and loss of sight are not as horrendous as you think, but I understand the fear.   I have a huge blind spot, but it does allow me an excuse to ignore anyone standing to my right.

[ThatHomeschoolDad]

What is OM?  

 

Ocular Melanoma.  It comes in a few varieties -- choroidal (that's mine), iris and ciliary body.

 

Of course, there are other tumors, both benign and malignant.  The post only caught me attention because OM is so ridiculously rare.

[Jean in Newcastle]

Ocular Melanoma.  It comes in a few varieties -- choroidal (that's mine), iris and ciliary body.

 

Of course, there are other tumors, both benign and malignant.  The post only caught me attention because OM is so ridiculously rare.

Hers is a hemangioma - benign and also rare.  They are observing it regularly because it hemorrhages on occasion (fortunately very small ones).  

[ThatHomeschoolDad]

Hers is a hemangioma - benign and also rare.  They are observing it regularly because it hemorrhages on occasion (fortunately very small ones).  

 

Benign is good.   :hurray:

[Jean in Newcastle]

Benign is good.   :hurray:

LOL  yes.  The only thing I don't like is this exchange:

 

The specialists:   "No tumors like this (not that there are many, mind you) have been known to change.  But. . . come back in 3 months so we can make sure it hasn't changed."  

 

Me:  "What if it does change?  What then?"

 

Specialists:  "Oh it won't.  But do make sure you come back.  We have to be sure it hasn't changed."

 

Me:  "But what if it does change?  What then?"

 

We could stay in an endless loop on this. . .    The answer that they are trying not to tell me is that they really don't know what to do if it does change because they have absolutely no idea what to do then.  This is so rare that my dd is featured now in journal articles and retinal conferences.  Her claim to fame!  

[Bootsie]

I have had laser eye surgery to repair holes in both eyes.  My father had a detached retina as has my uncle.  My father was one of the first laser eye patients in the mid-1960s when lasers first became available.  Retina problems are serious.  It is important to take care of any hole quickly. 

[ThatHomeschoolDad]

LOL  yes.  The only thing I don't like is this exchange:

 

The specialists:   "No tumors like this (not that there are many, mind you) have been known to change.  But. . . come back in 3 months so we can make sure it hasn't changed."  

 

Me:  "What if it does change?  What then?"

 

Specialists:  "Oh it won't.  But do make sure you come back.  We have to be sure it hasn't changed."

 

Me:  "But what if it does change?  What then?"

 

We could stay in an endless loop on this. . .    The answer that they are trying not to tell me is that they really don't know what to do if it does change because they have absolutely no idea what to do then.  This is so rare that my dd is featured now in journal articles and retinal conferences.  Her claim to fame!  

 

 

A 3 month check sounds pretty normal -- that's what I have.  I would suspect that if the tumor does change, there are several ways to address it that do NOT involve enucleation.  If yoiu can't get satisfaction locally, or if she does experience some growth, by all means, get to Wills Eye Institute in Philadelphia and see tumor guru Dr. Carol Shields.

 

I can't tell you how many patients I know who said Mayo or Cleveland Clinic, or some other big hospital told them there was nothing to be done.  Then they go to Philly and the story is all different.  If it comes to that, drop me a line -- I have the lowdown on lodging and whatnot in that area.

 

Meanwhile, living scan to scan or appt to appt is not fun, but you can adapt to it as a new normal.

[Tiramisu]

A 3 month check sounds pretty normal -- that's what I have.  I would suspect that if the tumor does change, there are several ways to address it that do NOT involve enucleation.  If yoiu can't get satisfaction locally, or if she does experience some growth, by all means, get to Wills Eye Institute in Philadelphia and see tumor guru Dr. Carol Shields.

 

I can't tell you how many patients I know who said Mayo or Cleveland Clinic, or some other big hospital told them there was nothing to be done.  Then they go to Philly and the story is all different.  If it comes to that, drop me a line -- I have the lowdown on lodging and whatnot in that area.

 

Meanwhile, living scan to scan or appt to appt is not fun, but you can adapt to it as a new normal.

 

If Jean comes to Philly, we're going to have to fight over her. :)

[Jean in Newcastle]

If Jean comes to Philly, we're going to have to fight over her. :)

LOL.  If I do come to Philly, I hope it is for nicer reasons than to find emergency eye care for my daughter.  

[ThatHomeschoolDad]

Well, you can get a cheesesteak unlike any other in the country, so there's that.

[littlebug42]

About 16 or 17 years ago, I was diagnosed with tears in both of my retinas.  At that time, I had a laser surgery on my right eye and a cryo surgery on my left eye.  So far, I have had no complications and no further tearing.  I do have a first cousin (much older than I am) that had surgery for a retinal detachment and I will always be at risk of my retinas detaching.  I am severely nearsighted so I am constantly alert to any possible symptoms of detachment.  

 

ETA: I agree that he definitely needs to see a retinal specialist.  When I was referred and went to see mine, he did laser surgery the same day because he felt it should not wait any longer to be treated. 

[mom@shiloh]

One of the teenagers at our Coop had this.  Even though it sounds scary, it seemed like it wasn't too big of a deal to have repaired and had no long-term implications.  

[Jean in Newcastle]

One of the teenagers at our Coop had this.  Even though it sounds scary, it seemed like it wasn't too big of a deal to have repaired and had no long-term implications.  

It's not a big deal to have repaired if it is done in a timely manner by a qualified professional.  That is what we are urging the OP to do (or hopefully to have done already.)

[MyThreeSons]

 

Two of my first cousins are Optometrists. I have never been to one. They are NOT Medical Doctors.

 

 

I'll bet your family gatherings are a little uncomfortable, if you've made that attitude known. 

 

Optometrists and Ophthalmologists are different, and each is important. Optometrists screen for and detect all kinds of disorders and will refer a patient to an Ophthalmologist -- and sometimes even a different medical specialist entirely -- when there is a need.  For certain diseases and conditions, an Ophthalmologist is essential, and your Optometrist will not hesitate to tell you that. Several members of my family have been referred in this way. 

 

However, for proper fitting of eyeglasses and contact lenses, give me an Optometrist any day. An Optometrist spends the bulk of his two years of study learning to properly prescribe and fit lenses, and almost the entire two years concentrating on the eyes. An Ophthalmologist spends about six weeks learning to fit lenses. Sure, he has also done a general surgery rotation, has delivered a baby or two, has performed a colonoscopy, etc. -- none of which I need when when getting new glasses or contacts fitted. 

 

One of my sons has a connective tissue disorder which makes him extremely nearsighted, and at high risk for retinal detachment. He has seen a pediatric Ophthalmologist for years. She told us we would have to wait until he stopped growing, at which time she might be able to do corrective surgery, at which time he might be able to have his vision corrected to the point where he could pass the DMV vision test so he could begin driving. In the meantime, he has been wearing glasses which don't do the trick. 

 

This past summer, when my son turned 18 and no longer wanted to go to the pediatric specialist, he was seen by an Optometrist. She was able to fit him with contact lenses that have him seeing well enough to drive. All those years, and the Medical Doctor didn't do that! (And she didn't have the humility to admit that someone else might be able to help him.)

[Bootsie]

I'll bet your family gatherings are a little uncomfortable, if you've made that attitude known. 

 

Optometrists and Ophthalmologists are different, and each is important. Optometrists screen for and detect all kinds of disorders and will refer a patient to an Ophthalmologist -- and sometimes even a different medical specialist entirely -- when there is a need.  For certain diseases and conditions, an Ophthalmologist is essential, and your Optometrist will not hesitate to tell you that. Several members of my family have been referred in this way. 

 

However, for proper fitting of eyeglasses and contact lenses, give me an Optometrist any day. An Optometrist spends the bulk of his two years of study learning to properly prescribe and fit lenses, and almost the entire two years concentrating on the eyes. An Ophthalmologist spends about six weeks learning to fit lenses. Sure, he has also done a general surgery rotation, has delivered a baby or two, has performed a colonoscopy, etc. -- none of which I need when when getting new glasses or contacts fitted. 

 

One of my sons has a connective tissue disorder which makes him extremely nearsighted, and at high risk for retinal detachment. He has seen a pediatric Ophthalmologist for years. She told us we would have to wait until he stopped growing, at which time she might be able to do corrective surgery, at which time he might be able to have his vision corrected to the point where he could pass the DMV vision test so he could begin driving. In the meantime, he has been wearing glasses which don't do the trick. 

 

This past summer, when my son turned 18 and no longer wanted to go to the pediatric specialist, he was seen by an Optometrist. She was able to fit him with contact lenses that have him seeing well enough to drive. All those years, and the Medical Doctor didn't do that! (And she didn't have the humility to admit that someone else might be able to help him.)

 

Optometrists are not medical doctors.  What optometrists can and cannot do varies from state to state.  Because of a family history of retina problems (which must be treated by an MD) I never saw an optometrist when I was growing up.  Optometrists were allowed to do basic vision exams and prescribe glasses, but they could not do any type of exam that included "medication" (including dilating the eye).  Optometrists were not allowed to prescribe any eye drops to treat eye infections, etc.--I do not know if it is still that restrictive.

 

When I moved to Texas, optometrist were able to do much more and opthalmologists were not interested in prescribing glasses or contacts.  I know see both a opthalmologist who is a retina specialist AND a highly trained optometrist who prescribes lenses, deals with infections, etc.

 

So, posters in different states may have different experiences with when to see an optometrist or an opthalmologist depending upon state regulations.

[Pawz4me]

So, posters in different states may have different experiences with when to see an optometrist or an opthalmologist depending upon state regulations.

 

Yes.

 

Here optometrist are allowed to perform a wide range of services and to treat many eye conditions (dry eye, scratched corneas, etc).  As far as I know they are allowed to prescribe drops for infections and other minor issues.  They are to eyes as general practitioners/family doctors are to the rest of the body -- the first line of defense, and the person who will refer you higher up the chain if necessary.  My mom needed to see a retinal specialist several times a year, and she just couldn't comprehend that there were things he couldn't or wouldn't do.  He kept telling her "You need to see your optometrist for that."  She just didn't get it that the optometrist was far and away the best choice for some things, even when the retinal specialist told her over and over.  But I do understand that it's different in some states.  Every optometrist I've dealt with here has been absolutely fantastic, and I have great respect for the profession.

 

[MyThreeSons]

I understand that there are some differences from state to state. I just really didn't like the tone of the poster who totally disregarded Optometrists because they aren't Medical Doctors. 

[Jean in Newcastle]

I understand that there are some differences from state to state. I just really didn't like the tone of the poster who totally disregarded Optometrists because they aren't Medical Doctors. 

His issue is a tumor in the retina - not something an optometrist can treat.  My dd's retinal tumor was first seen by an optometrist but she immediately got us into an opthamologist - and not just any opthamologist but a retinal specialist because you need a medical doctor who is highly specialized in the field for that.  

[ThatHomeschoolDad]

His issue is a tumor in the retina - not something an optometrist can treat.  My dd's retinal tumor was first seen by an optometrist but she immediately got us into an opthamologist - and not just any opthamologist but a retinal specialist because you need a medical doctor who is highly specialized in the field for that.  

 

Yup.  I have an ophthalmologist for the front of my eye, and a retina surgeon for the back.  Two different specialties.

[MyThreeSons]

His issue is a tumor in the retina - not something an optometrist can treat.  My dd's retinal tumor was first seen by an optometrist but she immediately got us into an opthamologist - and not just any opthamologist but a retinal specialist because you need a medical doctor who is highly specialized in the field for that.  

 

I wasn't referring to that guy. I was referring to the guy (Lanny -- maybe not a guy?) whose cousins are Optometrists. I don't see where he (she?) has any experience other than discounting Optometrists. 

[Jean in Newcastle]

I wasn't referring to that guy. I was referring to the guy (Lanny -- maybe not a guy?) whose cousins are Optometrists. I don't see where he (she?) has any experience other than discounting Optometrists. 

Ah yes.  The last post he made seems to indicate that he considers a retinal tear a medical emergency requiring an opthamologist.  And I would agree.  My optometrist is great but she doesn't treat those.  Again - as I said upthread somewhere, I think it is an easily treatable medical emergency but still needs to be treated quickly and appropriately.  

[MyThreeSons]

I would absolutely agree that a retinal tear is a medical emergency. In fact, several years ago, as I was driving to church, my dh looked at me and asked, "Why do you have a black hole in your face?" We headed straight to the ER, as I knew that he was experiencing the beginning of a detached retina. Time was of the essence. He was treated by an ophthalmologist with a specialty in retina issues. When he was healed from the surgery, the M.D. told him to go to the Optometrist to be fitted with a new pair of glasses. 

 

I'm taking exception to Lanny's assertion that Optometrists are somehow lesser than Ophthalmologists. They have different roles, and each does what he's supposed to do. 

[Lanny]

I believe that if someone needs a prescription for eyeglasses, and to have eyeglasses made, an Optometrist is great for that.

However, with regard to medical problems in eyes, an Optometrist is NOT a medical doctor. They are very limited, in their training, and what they are permitted to do, legally, apparently varies from state to state. The 2 professions are both related to eyes, but are incredibly different, in the training required.

Kudos to the Optometrist who discovered the problem the OP mentioned in her first post. I did not think an Optometrist would be able to detect that kind of a problem.

With regard to my 2 cousins who are Optometrists. They are family and I wouldn't share my opinion about this with them.

Starting when I was a child, we always went to an ophthalmologist . Then, after getting a prescription for eyeglasses, to an Optician, who dispensed the eyeglasses.

The purpose of an Optometrist is, IMHO, much closer to that of an Optician. Their primary task is to sell eyeglasses, and contact lenses, and doing vision examinations.

 

I've known at least 2 people here who had Retina problems and it is a very serious issue. And, one of our ophthalmologist's brothers lives in/near Atlanta. When he had a Retina problem, she wished that she could be there, to help guide him with the medical decisions that needed to be made.

 

Now, one of my friends in Georgia has an issue with his Retinas, that is apparently caused by cardiac problems and he is losing his vision, very quickly.

[MyThreeSons]

However, with regard to medical problems in eyes, an Optometrist is NOT a medical doctor. They are very limited, in their training, and what they are permitted to do, legally, apparently varies from state to state. The 2 professions are both related to eyes, but are incredibly different, in the training required.

 

There is no disputing that an Optometrist is not an M.D. However, I think you have some very old-fashioned misconceptions about Optometrists. To say that an OD's training is "very limited" is wrong. I copied the following information from Wikipedia, simply because it was the best summary I could find, but its sources are referenced and the points made can be verified at other sites. I have emphasized with red the list of some of the courses taken during an OD's four years of post-graduate study. 

 

United States[edit]

Doctors of Optometry in the United States are currently regulated by state boards that determine their scope of practice, which may vary from state to state. Within the healthcare system, optometrists function as primary eye care providers who are especially experienced in fitting contact lenses and glasses prescriptions.

Optometrists can also treat their patients that have eye diseases with:

• Oral medications ^[38] (such as antivirals, antibiotics, oral steroids and pain medications^[39])
• Topical medications such as prescription eye drops to treat glaucoma^[40] or red eye for example.
• Injectable medications.^[41]

Optometrists may also be trained in some surgical techniques, including those for foreign body removal, corneal injury, eyelid & lacrimal disease, removal of "lumps and bumps" around the eyes^[42] and others. In Oklahoma, the state optometry board also allows state-certified optometrists to perform surgeries limited to the anterior segment of the eye. In Kentucky, recent legislation permits Optometrists to perform a multitude of laser procedures. In many cases optometrists and ophthalmologists work together in the treatment and management of patients with various eye conditions. Opticians in America generally dispense corrective eye wear, and in some cases also construct the corrective eye wear. The scope of practice in optometry varies as it is regulated by each state.

The American Optometric Association (AOA) and the American Optometric Society (AOS) represent optometrists nationally in the USA. Prior to admittance into optometry school, optometrists typically complete four years of undergraduate study, culminating in a bachelor’s degree. Required undergraduate coursework for pre-optometry students covers a variety of health, science and mathematics courses. These courses include: four semesters of chemistry to include organic and biochemistry, two semesters of physics and biology, as well as one semester of calculus, statistics, physiology, anatomy, microbiology, and psychology. Additional requirements are imposed by specific institutions. Once completing these courses, admission to an optometry doctorate program requires that candidates score well on the O.A.T., Optometry Admission Tests. There are currently 20 optometry schools in the United States, and admission into these schools is highly competitive.

Optometrists are required to complete a four-year postgraduate degree program to earn their Doctor of Optometry (O.D. - Oculus Doctor) titles. The four-year program includes classroom and clinical training in geometric, physical, physiological and ophthalmic optics, ocular anatomy, ocular disease, ocular pharmacology, neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the vision system, binocular vision, color, form, space, movement and vision perception, design and modification of the visual environment, and vision performance and vision screening. In addition, an optometric education also includes a thorough study of human anatomy, systemic diseases, general pharmacology, general pathology, microbiology, sensory and perceptual psychology, biochemistry, statistics and epidemiology.

Upon completion of an accredited program in optometry, graduates hold the Doctor of Optometry degree. Optometrists must then pass a national examination administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO).^[43] The three-part exam includes basic science, clinical science and patient care. (The structure and format of the NBEO exams are subject to change beginning in 2008.) Some optometrists go on to complete one- to two-year residencies with training in a specific sub-specialty such as pediatric eyecare, geriatric eyecare, specialty contact lens, ocular disease or neuro-optometry. All optometrists are required to fulfill continuing education requirements to stay current regarding the latest standards of care.

[Bootsie]

An optometrist first diagnosed my retina problems.  The optometrist that I see has advanced training.  In fact, he was an optometrist for NASA, studying sight issues faced by astronauts.  But, it is a retina specialist who treats my retina issues.  FWIW my retina specialist has told me not to go to the emergency room if I suspect further retina problems in that emergency rooms do not have the equipment to look at the retina.  She has told me to call her immediately.  Once, I was seeing flashing lights, a sign of retina problems on the weekend, and she was at her office within minutes to see what was happening. 

[MyThreeSons]

FWIW my retina specialist has told me not to go to the emergency room if I suspect further retina problems in that emergency rooms do not have the equipment to look at the retina.  She has told me to call her immediately.  Once, I was seeing flashing lights, a sign of retina problems on the weekend, and she was at her office within minutes to see what was happening. 

 

When my dh suffered his detached retina, we were in the ER for several hours before they called in the Ophthalmologist who was on call that weekend. The ER staff felt they needed to rule out a stroke and several other possibilities, even though I kept saying, "I'm pretty sure this is a detached retina. Please call in the Ophthalmologist." 

 

When they finally called him in, he dilated the eye, and using a regular hand-held scope, verified what we both knew to be true: it was a detached retina. As he was removing the dust cover from the one slit lamp in the whole hospital to get a better look, part of the lamp broke off, and he couldn't use it. It didn't really matter, because at that point, the doctor confided that while he was indeed an Ophthalmologist, he didn't "do" retinas. His specialty was cosmetic surgery. He called a retina specialist, who had us meet him at his office. So, almost 9 hours after I first thought "detached retina", we finally saw the right doctor.

[Happy]

Wow, y'all are uncanny. I went for a check up to my optometrist yesterday. She found a hole in my retina and sent me straight over to a retina specialist. Fortunately...and because I have NO symptoms...he is letting me think about it for a month. After reading this thread, I think I'll give his office a call and schedule the laser zap a bit sooner than planned.

 

I love what I learn on this board.

[MyThreeSons]

I believe that if someone needs a prescription for eyeglasses, and to have eyeglasses made, an Optometrist is great for that.

 

However, with regard to medical problems in eyes, an Optometrist is NOT a medical doctor. They are very limited, in their training, and what they are permitted to do, legally, apparently varies from state to state. The 2 professions are both related to eyes, but are incredibly different, in the training required.

 

Kudos to the Optometrist who discovered the problem the OP mentioned in her first post. I did not think an Optometrist would be able to detect that kind of a problem.

 

With regard to my 2 cousins who are Optometrists. They are family and I wouldn't share my opinion about this with them.

 

Starting when I was a child, we always went to an ophthalmologist . Then, after getting a prescription for eyeglasses, to an Optician, who dispensed the eyeglasses.

 

The purpose of an Optometrist is, IMHO, much closer to that of an Optician. Their primary task is to sell eyeglasses, and contact lenses, and doing vision examinations.

 

I've known at least 2 people here who had Retina problems and it is a very serious issue. And, one of our ophthalmologist's brothers lives in/near Atlanta. When he had a Retina problem, she wished that she could be there, to help guide him with the medical decisions that needed to be made.

 

Now, one of my friends in Georgia has an issue with his Retinas, that is apparently caused by cardiac problems and he is losing his vision, very quickly.

 

[MyThreeSons]

For some reason, I can't get the quote function to work.

 

Lanny said "Kudos to the Optometrist who discovered the problem the OP mentioned in her first post. I did not think an Optometrist would be able to detect that kind of a problem.

 

With regard to my 2 cousins who are Optometrists. They are family and I wouldn't share my opinion about this with them."

 

Lanny -- rather than sharing your obviously uninformed opinion, perhaps if you were willing to open your mind a little, and have an earnest discussion with your cousins about the work they do, you would find that Optometrists are not at all what you think. What the Optometrist found in the OP's child is exactly the kind of thing that ODs routinely check for.

[MyThreeSons]

Sorry for that non-post. Now I can't edit either that or my more recent post.

[Granny_Weatherwax]

Thanks for the replies everyone.  I appreciate all of the advice.  I know you all mean well and it is under the umbrella of friendship that I am reading all of the posts.

 

I wish we lived in a larger metropolitan area with ophthalmologists and retinal surgeons but we don't.  We have to travel and we cannot have anything done without prior pre-approval or the insurance company can deny the claims.

 

At present we have approval for an assessment with an opthalmologist and, based upon the optometrists retinal images, have had a telephone discussion about surgery. Unfortunately the surgery cannot be scheduled until the assessment is complete; this means at least two trips since the doctor said scheduling the assessment and the surgery in the same day is not possible.  :(

 

Our insurance company is not viewing this as an emergency due to the size of the hole.  I will know more about the appointments on Monday.  In the meantime, DS is going about his life as usual, although he has curtailed his activities some.

 

I always thought our insurance was excellent but now I just don't know.  They are blaming the new healthcare system for the delays and the red tape but who knows.

[Pawz4me]

Thanks for the replies everyone.  I appreciate all of the advice.  I know you all mean well and it is under the umbrella of friendship that I am reading all of the posts.

 

I wish we lived in a larger metropolitan area with ophthalmologists and retinal surgeons but we don't.  We have to travel and we cannot have anything done without prior pre-approval or the insurance company can deny the claims.

 

At present we have approval for an assessment with an opthalmologist and, based upon the optometrists retinal images, have had a telephone discussion about surgery. Unfortunately the surgery cannot be scheduled until the assessment is complete; this means at least two trips since the doctor said scheduling the assessment and the surgery in the same day is not possible.  :(

 

Our insurance company is not viewing this as an emergency due to the size of the hole.  I will know more about the appointments on Monday.  In the meantime, DS is going about his life as usual, although he has curtailed his activities some.

 

I always thought our insurance was excellent but now I just don't know.  They are blaming the new healthcare system for the delays and the red tape but who knows.

 

I wouldn't worry.  I'm sure the optometrist who diagnosed it would know whether it was an emergency or not.  Since he didn't indicate that it was . . . I wouldn't worry about the time lag.

 

Requiring insurance pre-approval for non-emergency procedures has been the norm for many years (as long as I can remember, and I'm 50).  In my experience for most things the approval comes quickly, often within a matter of hours or a couple of days at the most.  And when necessary the doctor's staff person who handles insurance can usually push and get approval even quicker.

[Tiramisu]

I wouldn't worry.  I'm sure the optometrist who diagnosed it would know whether it was an emergency or not.  Since he didn't indicate that it was . . . I wouldn't worry about the time lag.

 

Requiring insurance pre-approval for non-emergency procedures has been the norm for many years (as long as I can remember, and I'm 50).  In my experience for most things the approval comes quickly, often within a matter of hours or a couple of days at the most.  And when necessary the doctor's staff person who handles insurance can usually push and get approval even quicker.

 

I agree. I think if it was a the type of thing that needed to be acted on yesterday, it would have been, especially as the doctor has seen the images and talked to you about them. If it were a true emergency case, the doctor could call the insurance company. As it is, it seems like a situation that he's familiar with and is acting appropriately....but still getting the insurance approval is such an annoyance...for the doctor and the patients. :(

[Granny_Weatherwax]

We are going to the Big City for the procedure.  There is a retina surgical clinic associated with a major university and they are willing to see DS for the consult and surgery in the same day.  The appt is in two weeks; it will be a long day but I am grateful for their accommodations.

 

This clinic has a history with our insurance provider so that worked out well, too.

 

Now we wait.  DS's anxiety about it has decreased considerably and his eye tic has waned.  I hope it stays that way until the surgery date.