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Loss of vision from gca

Posted , 10 users are following.

ricky23486
ricky23486

I rushed to my ophthalmologist because I was afraid that I might be developing gca.  After examination and diagnosing something else not at all sinister my ophthalmologist stated categorically that any loss of vision from gca  is temporary and lasts about a year...... I didn’t say a word ....but thought...  is it time to find a new ophthalmologist.....?

1 like, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • EileenH
    EileenH ricky23486

    Posted

    Oh yes - I think so! The loss of vision due to GCA is irreversible - that is the scary thing about it. I am always amazed when an ophthalmologist says something so stupid - they are usually the REALLY good ones about GCA.
  • Anhaga
    Anhaga ricky23486

    Posted

    I'm horrified to hear this.  I proactively went to my ophthalmologist when my gp was a bit casual about having vision checked.  In the course of the visit he gave me far more info about prednisone than the gp ever had, and emphasized that GCA was treated as a medical emergency.  

  • Michdonn
    Michdonn ricky23486

    Posted

    ricky23486, the lost of sight is no joke. The longer I have PMR, the more doctors I hear of that are making bad decisions and giving bad advise; sad! Stay positive! Get another opinion!
  • sandy08116
    sandy08116 ricky23486

    Posted

    That's awful, Ricky. Vision loss in one eye is irreversible. A friend of mine nearly lost her sight too. Her ophthalmologist strengthened her glasses! It was when she read about my symptoms (GCA) - in Facebook - that she rushed to a rheumatologist who immediately put her on high dosage of prednisone. Her eyes are still blurry but at least she can see and possibly saved her sight. The disorder is vascular and rheumatologists are the best to treat and manage GCA. Extremely poor advice from a so-called professional!

  • ricky23486
    ricky23486

    Posted

    Thank you all for your supportive responses.... I just read that this physician is a neuro-opthalmologist which makes what she said even more bizarre! I then asked my sister who accompanied me if I had heard correctly...which she confirmed! So the hunt for a new physician is on. Thanks again.
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