Glaucoma specialist?

[chameleonknight]

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Hi, guys.

Quick question: My father (71 yo, white, non-smoker, high cholesterol, but generally in good health) has been treated for glaucoma for nearly 3 years now by a general opthalmologist who recently told him that he is at risk for developing cataracts in the future. His FP told him that he should probably see a glaucoma specialist in Shreveport.

Do you think this is necessary, and will it be significantly more expensive? Any other thoughts?

Thanks for your input; I know this seems like a somewhat silly question, but it's important to me. Obviously, he has asked for my advice and I don't want to tell him wrong.

 

[Andrew_Doan]

If his glaucoma is well-controlled, then there is no need to see a glaucoma specialist. For instance, if there has been no visual field loss and his intraocular pressures have been controlled, then I'd stay with the general ophthalmologist.

What was the rationale for going to a glaucoma specialist?

Also, at 71 y.o., everyone has cataracts. Cataracts are like getting grey hair.

 

[cpw]

as one of my profs says " hope you live long enough to get a cataract" 🙂

 

[chameleonknight]

Thanks for the replies, guys! *thumbs up*

 

[GlaucomaMD]

Possible reason for a referral to the glaucoma specialist in a stable situation may be that he has advanced glaucoma such that even though it is stable and controlled, he would likely need a combined cataract/glaucoma surgery when he eventually needs the cataract surgery.

Perhaps he has pseudoexfoliation syndrome in which case "earlier" cataract surgery may be indicated?

Just my 2 cents...

 

[chameleonknight]

I do not know much about his condition, because he is not the type to talk a lot. He just sort of follows whatever the doc says. I appreciate your post, glaucomaMD; I think he is going to be evaluated by the specialist. (his choice, obviously)

 

[7ontheline]

I do not know much about his condition, because he is not the type to talk a lot. He just sort of follows whatever the doc says. I appreciate your post, glaucomaMD; I think he is going to be evaluated by the specialist. (his choice, obviously)

Nothing against glaucoma specialists (since I hope to be one after next year) but it doesn't sound like you or your father know enough about his condition to decide whether more specialized evaluation is necessary. I kind of doubt the FP does, although he/she certainly may. Perhaps it would be easier to consult with your father's general ophthalmologist first, and see if he/she agrees that a specialist might be useful. Generally basic glaucoma should be easily within the scope of any general ophthalomogist, I would think. A couple of questions to your father's ophtho should at least tell you if there is anything more complicated going on, and then you could make a more informed decision.