Your Eye Exam Results: Severity of Vision Loss Explained - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Understanding the results of your eye examination can be quite concerning, especially when it involves potential vision loss. Based on the information you've provided, it appears that you have undergone an OTC (Optical Coherence Tomography) examination, which is a non-invasive imaging test that provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina. The results you mentioned indicate that your left eye has a score of 90 and your right eye has a score of 85.
In the context of vision assessments, these scores can reflect the health of your optic nerve and the overall condition of your retina. The fact that your right eye's score is lower suggests that there may be some degree of damage or dysfunction occurring in that eye, particularly since you mentioned that the doctor indicated that if the score drops to 46, you could lose vision completely in that eye.

To address your question about the percentage of damage: while the exact percentage of damage cannot be calculated directly from the scores alone, a score of 85 indicates that there is a significant concern. Generally, scores closer to 100 represent healthy optic nerve function, while scores significantly lower than that indicate varying degrees of impairment. A score of 85 suggests that your right eye is experiencing moderate damage, and it is crucial to monitor this closely.

The severity of your condition can be considered serious, especially given the warning from your doctor about the potential for complete vision loss if the score drops to 46. This emphasizes the importance of regular follow-ups and possibly more aggressive management strategies to prevent further deterioration.
In terms of what you should do next, it is essential to follow your doctor's recommendations closely. This may include:
1. Regular Monitoring: Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your eye health and any changes in your vision. This is critical for early detection of any further deterioration.

2. Lifestyle Adjustments: Consider making lifestyle changes that can help protect your vision. This includes reducing screen time, ensuring proper lighting when reading or working, and taking regular breaks to reduce eye strain.

3. Medication Compliance: If your doctor has prescribed any medications or eye drops, ensure you are using them as directed. These can help manage symptoms and potentially slow the progression of any underlying conditions.

4. Healthy Diet: Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. These nutrients are beneficial for eye health.

5. Protective Eyewear: If you are exposed to bright lights or screens for extended periods, consider wearing protective eyewear to reduce glare and strain.

6. Consultation with Specialists: If you haven't already, consider consulting with a retinal specialist or a neuro-ophthalmologist, especially since you mentioned optic nerve damage. They can provide more specialized care and treatment options.

7. Emergency Symptoms: Be aware of any sudden changes in your vision, such as flashes of light, sudden floaters, or a significant decrease in vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

In conclusion, while your current scores indicate some level of damage, proactive management and regular monitoring can help you maintain your vision and potentially prevent further loss. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and any changes you notice in your vision.