Procedures

Starlight · #1 (**permalink**) 07-06-2005, 10:16 PM

What are the procedures done while at the opthamologist? Can someone please explain them? I've been visiting the optomitrist but im looking into going to an actual opthamologist. Are the procedures painful?

HeatherP · #2 (**permalink**) 07-06-2005, 10:58 PM

First off, you should definitely see an Opthamologist, rather than an O.D.

Second, for the most part the exam in no big deal. Make sure you tell the doc you have Diabetes, and it's helpful if you know your current average b/s level and your last A1c (but not necessary).

The part(s) of the exam that come to mind in being the most difficult are the test for pressure: they put a lens (sort of like a thick contact lens) up to and almost against your eye and give a little puff of air. This doesn't bother me as I wear contacts and am used to the sensation. The "worst" part is the dialation: they'll put some drops in your eyes to relax and dialate your pupil so they can look into your eye for damage. Some people seem to have a hard time with this part, but I think most of us don't - it's never posed a problem for me and I've been having it done for over 20 years. Make sure you bring a good pair of sunglasses with you as it will take a while for your pupils to go back to normal and so bright light will cause you some discomfort. (They usually have some at the office to hand out, but they're very unfashionable, lol!)

Tell the doc it's your first exam, and don't be afraid to ask questions: any doctor worth his or her salt will be happy to address your concerns, explain the procedures and put you at ease. (this applies to any doctor by the way)

I'm sure you'll do fine!
Heather

Starlight · #3 (**permalink**) 07-07-2005, 08:08 AM

Yeh, I suggested to the endo to see one but she assured me that the O.D was fine at the moment since control is pretty good. I know i'll still freak out though!

Cinnabon · #4 (**permalink**) 07-07-2005, 08:19 AM

Exactly what Heather said, don't see an O.D.. Read up on my story for thinking I was ok by doing this. The procedure was painless for me. A bit uncomfortable because they do need to dilate your pupil and you may experience some sensibility to light right after. But other than that, its pretty simple. Let us know how you did.

jdstein11 · #5 (**permalink**) 07-07-2005, 02:20 PM

Yeah, I had one of those exams once and didn't know about the blurry vision part (due to the dilated pupils). Of course, that was a day when I forgot my sunglasses at home, and it was REALLY dangerous driving home. You may want to consider having someone with you so they can drive; it's a MUCH safer alternative.

JasonSmithMT · #6 (**permalink**) 07-07-2005, 06:10 PM

Many ophthalmologists will have the eye drops (dapiprazole) to reverse the dilation after they are done with the exam. You usually have to ask but something to consider if the dilation really bothers you.

Jason

Belinda · #7 (**permalink**) 07-07-2005, 06:21 PM

The time I saw an OD he dialated my eyes. I am all for the opthamologist and the reverse drops. There is no pain in any of the procedures. I do hate playing the follow my finger game but hey it is harmless. For your piece of mind you should go see the opthamologist, it doesn't matter that your sugar is in control......you should still see one.