Optometrist/Opthalmologist and Cataracts

[Anna Mason]

Ok I have had KC for 40+ years and have been regularly attending clinics etc.

I now have cataracts forming and the lady I see at Oxford asked me when did you last see an Opthalmologist, um er 20+ years ago I guess. She said I should be seeing one to monitor my KC. My brother and I are in the same boat he never sees one either I stupidly thought that if I was called regularly for hospital appointments that was it that I was being taken care of and seeing everyone I needed to.

Additionally I now know what my visual Accuity is apparently weak eye is 6/12 good eye is 6/9. Apparently my weak eye improves to 6/9 with pinhole and chin elevation can anyone who knows their stuff enlighten me a bit purrlease?

[Andrew MacLean]

Anna

You certainly ought to be seeing an ophthalmologist both to have your KC monitored and to have your cataract attended to.

I am sure that one of the clever people will be along in a moment to explain the numbers to you

Andrew

[Lia Williams]

Anna,

I don't think that it is unusual not to see an ophthalmologist regularly if your KC is fairly stable.

For years I was seen by an optometrist who had an interest in challenging patients. It's only when I moved house and couldn't find someone else to fit my eyes that I saw my GP and asked to be referred to the hospital and saw an ophthalmologist He confirmed that I had KC and then I went to the contact lens department. However I would expect/hope that if the optometrist had any concerns I would be referred back to the ophthalmologist.

Lia