Regular Eye Exams for High Myopia: Which Specialist to See?

Regular Eye Examinations for High Myopia

Doctor He: Hello, I have high myopia, and I recently saw news reports stating that high myopia increases the risk of retinal detachment, macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.
It is recommended to have a comprehensive eye examination every six months.
I just learned that individuals with high myopia need regular eye check-ups.
Should I schedule an appointment with the "General Ophthalmology" department or the "Retina Specialist" department at the hospital? Thank you!

Lán tiān, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/06

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

You only need to schedule an appointment with a general ophthalmologist and communicate your needs; the appropriate specialist will perform the necessary examinations for you.

Reply Date: 2017/05/06

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding regular eye exams for high myopia and which specialist to see. High myopia, defined as a refractive error greater than -6.00 diopters, is indeed associated with various ocular complications, including retinal detachment, macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma. Given these risks, it is crucial for individuals with high myopia to have regular eye examinations to monitor their eye health.

When considering which specialist to see, it is generally advisable to start with a general ophthalmologist. A general ophthalmologist is trained to perform comprehensive eye exams, diagnose various eye conditions, and manage general eye health. They can assess your vision, check for any signs of complications associated with high myopia, and provide appropriate referrals if necessary.

If during your examination, the general ophthalmologist identifies specific concerns related to the retina, such as signs of retinal detachment or macular degeneration, they may refer you to a retinal specialist. Retinal specialists have advanced training in diagnosing and treating diseases of the retina and vitreous, making them well-equipped to handle complex issues related to high myopia.

In your case, since you are aware of the potential complications associated with high myopia, it is wise to mention your concerns during your visit to the general ophthalmologist. They can then tailor the examination to focus on areas of concern, such as the retina and macula. Regular check-ups are essential, and many experts recommend that individuals with high myopia have their eyes examined at least once every six months, or more frequently if there are any changes in vision or symptoms.

In addition to regular eye exams, it's important to be aware of any symptoms that may indicate a problem, such as sudden changes in vision, flashes of light, or an increase in floaters. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Furthermore, while you may start with a general ophthalmologist, if you have a history of retinal issues or if you are experiencing specific symptoms related to the retina, you might consider scheduling an appointment directly with a retinal specialist. This can sometimes expedite the process of receiving specialized care.

In summary, begin with a general ophthalmologist for your regular eye exams. They will assess your overall eye health and determine if a referral to a retinal specialist is necessary based on their findings. Regular monitoring is key to managing the risks associated with high myopia, and being proactive about your eye health will help ensure that any potential issues are caught early. Thank you for prioritizing your eye health, and I wish you the best in your ongoing care!

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