One of the challenges with visual impairments and visual deficits is that it's difficult to detect them just by looking […]
If you have been diagnosed with any type of low vision, you have likely already been to an ophthalmologist, a medical specialist that diagnoses and treats eye conditions. The common misconception is that all one needs is an ophthalmologist that provides a low vision patient with comprehensive care for their condition.
A low vision optometrist is essential for providing patients with low vision comprehensive care for their condition by providing the patient with comprehensive guidance on how to maximize their remaining vision. Our low vision optometrist will add a vital aspect of care by helping each patient navigate the best options, devices and adaptations to maximize the vision that remains in order to achieve daily tasks.
A person who has significant vision loss which cannot be corrected with standard measures (such as prescription glasses, contact lenses, or surgical procedures) can benefit greatly from the field of low vision. Receiving a diagnosis of severe vision loss can be a difficult life-changing reality to accept, regardless if it’s from birth or an acquired condition. It is so natural to focus on the many activities which are very challenging or off limits due to this diagnosis, however there is an entire field within optometry called ‘low vision’ devoted to emphasizing what is possible. A low vision optometrist optimizes the vision that is still available to improve every aspect of the patient’s lifestyle.
If you or a loved one has significant vision loss, you most likely have spent time with an ophthalmologist who often is the one to diagnose the visual impairment and the cause behind it. The ophthalmologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats eye diseases and disorders with medicine and/or medical procedures. However, a person who falls under the ‘low vision’ category, by definition, cannot improve their vision with medicine or surgical procedures. That being said, it is still very important to be monitored by an ophthalmologist who will continue to check the health of your eye and contribute to your eye care. Our low vision optometrist works in conjunction with your ophthalmologist to enable a low vision patient to regain their independence with low vision.
It is the low vision optometrist who will be able to guide you how to function and thrive using your vision that remains. Dr. Heather McBryar will work with you to find the most effective solutions to maximize your visual abilities despite the diagnosis of visual impairment. Low vision extends beyond the medical diagnosis, using various optical or technological devices that will enable the patient to function in day to day life.
The goal of a low vision optometrist is to find effective solutions that will enable patients to perform tasks and engage in activities that they never thought they would be capable of doing again. The positive impact that this has in renewing a patient’s confidence is just as important as being able to resume the performance of everyday tasks and hobbies.
Dr. McBryar will ask for an extensive medical and ocular history, including a written diagnosis from the ophthalmologist, when relevant. The optometrist may discuss the diagnosis with the ophthalmologist who has been treating the patient and has been involved in the patient’s changes in ocular health.
Dr. McBryar will perform a low vision eye exam that can be customized to the patient’s visual abilities which will provide a clear understanding of what the patient is capable of visually. If there is a caretaker or family member who also is present at the appointment, it is crucial that they, as well as the patient, receive a thorough explanation about the visual impairment along with the visual abilities that remain. It is essential that the people in the individual’s life can understand what he/ she is capable of visually and which aspects are challenging. Setting the proper expectations is a key element of success in low vision.
Low vision optometrists are in a unique position to inform patients of the many effective interventions that have enabled people with vision loss to live their lives. Due to their knowledge and in-depth experience of a variety of treatments for low vision, they can prescribe vision aids to enlarge, magnify, illuminate, and make vision clearer.
Dr. McBryar will take the time to find out about the visual demands of your daily life and which activities have become challenging due to the visual impairment. There are various devices available to assist a person with low vision in succeeding at daily tasks, such as microscopes, proper lighting and contrast enhancement, electronic devices, just to name a few. Dr. McBryar is experienced in figuring out which methods are most effective and how they can be customized to your needs.
Low vision refers to visual impairment which cannot be remedied or treated with standard optometric measures like glasses, contact lenses, medical treatment, or surgery. Fortunately, a low vision optometrist in conjunction with your ophthalmologist, can provide many customized interventions to enhance the quality of life of a person who has vision loss. Dr. McBryar has vast experience in guiding a person beyond the diagnosis of vision loss and helping them achieve an improved quality of life. If you’ve been diagnosed with a low vision condition or you have been suffering from significant vision loss, please don’t hesitate to contact our office at (423) 710 3965 or chattanooga@amplifyeye.care to schedule your low vision consultation.
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