Also let down by my Opticians.

[Kwaker]

After my last visit to my Opticians I was left up in the air so to speak. I told him about the sudden appearance of floaters and web-like objects in my right eye. And the black disc shaped objects in both eyes which happen normally in poor light ie in bed at night. As I've already discussed on this forum. His response was see your GP as it's probably a health issue. But he never said anything about the sudden appearance of floaters in fact he never says much when your in his room being checked. While I was being checked my wife also was being examined in the same opticians by a different person. When she came out she said he noticed floaters in her eyes and went on to explain what they are and why we get them. Why couldn't my optician give me more info and set my mind at rest. Just to add my father went blind with AMD about 20 years ago and his mother (my grandmother) was totally blind from the age of 30.so you can see why I'm worried.

[Russgill11]

How old are you now? R

[Kwaker in reply to Russgill11]

I'm fast approaching 68

[Hidden]

Hello Kwaker

I fully understand your concern, but remember that 20 years ago there was no treatment for wet AMD. Unfortunately it came too late for your father and people like him in that era. We are luckier today. But also remember that not all dry AMD turns to wet, only 10 to 15%, though given your family history, you may be more at risk. Having said that, usually, but not always, dry AMD progresses very slowly, over many, many years.

Try to live a healthy lifestyle and partake in good healthy food - lots of greens; it may go a long way towards preserving your eyesight, though there is no guarantee. Check your vision on an Amsler Grid regularly. The dark patches you see in dim light are usually a symptom of AMD, wet or dry, but the floaters are not connected.

I agree with you that your optometrist should have explained things to you and not left you worrying. It is a failing in many clinics too. GPs usually are more prepared to talk things through.

Finally, don't stress yourself out over this issue. Stress is more harmful than we realise. Much can be done these days, even if not for dry AMD at present. There may be a cure with stem cell treatment waiting just around the corner. So, lets live in hope and enjoy the good things in life.

Best wishes.

[fed12]

Everything ayayay says is spot on. I do feel for you. I found you have to shop around to get a good optician. Your wife's optician sounds good. Can you see this person. Have a talk to the Macular Society. Helpline0300 3030 111, (macularsociety.org

All the very best!

[No2020]

Change doctors. Repeat this mantra: I am a consumer, he is the provider, being paid well for his services.

I have found a very professional, compassionate, capable and experienced doctor.

They exist!

[Rosalyn-helpline Partner]

Dear Kwaker,

I am copying a link to our information on floaters:

macularsociety.org/sites/de...

Just to make you aware, we are currently offering free 6 month membership. This is a good way to keep up with current developments. Please ring us if you would like to benefit from this, or join via the following link:

macularsociety.org/6months

I hope that this addresses your query.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of any further help. The Macular Society helpline is open 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday on 0300 3030 111.

Alternately, you can contact us via:

[e-mail]

Kind regards,