To see or not to see

February 20, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I’ve been seeing an optometrist for several years now, and even though he says I don’t need a new prescription and he has diagnosed me with the beginning of cataracts, I don’t feel I can see as well as I once did. So I made an appointment yesterday with my ophthalmologist, who told me I have bilateral cataracts that have advanced to the point of requiring surgical removal.

Now comes the hard part. My ophthalmologist indicates my risk of retinal detachment will increase. Can this be repaired if it happens? Perhaps I should suffer with poor vision rather than take the chance. What’s your take on the matter?
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Filed Under: Daily Column, Leading Letter Tagged With: , , , ,

Gott article saves reader’s sight

December 4, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: Your article in March 2010 about retinal detachment saved my sight. I had the symptoms described in the article and have had two reattachment surgeries. I also will have cataract surgeries on both eyes and cannot thank you enough.

DEAR READER: I have always felt that if I can help just one person through what could be a difficult situation, then I have accomplished something good. I am glad that you had the foresight to associate your symptoms with a problem that required the services of a doctor. There isn’t much of a second chance when it comes to our eyes. It’s not like losing baby teeth and having new ones appear. Eyes are precious and should be protected and cared for in the same way as the rest of the body.
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Filed Under: Daily Column Tagged With: ,