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Understanding my sight condition

My optometrist has noticed a problem with my vision

There are many ways in which vision can be affected. Here are some of the more common conditions with links to more information:

I would like more information about my eye condition and how to manage it. 

You can learn more about your eye condition at the About Eye Conditions dropdown list on Perspectif. If you select your condition from the list it will take you to a page of information with links to relevant literature and organisations.

My optometrist has referred me to the eye clinic at the hospital. What happens next and who will I see there? 

You should receive a letter from the hospital. Ask your optometrist when you should receive this by. If this time passes and no letter is received, go back to your optometrist to follow it up. They may have to contact the eye clinic or issue another referral to the clinic.

If you have difficulty getting to the hospital eye clinic, you may be able to get help with transport through the Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service. You can check your eligibility at the NEPTS website.

Where can I get information to help me prepare for my hospital eye appointment? 

[link to help with appointments in ‘initial appointment’ section] 

My eyesight is causing me problems with everyday tasks.

When your eyesight is affected by a condition such as glaucoma, macular disease or any other condition, you may find that some tasks become challenging. You might have trouble with any of the following tasks:

I’m a glaucoma patient and I would like support on how best to take my eye drops. 

Everyone will have different treatments prescribed to suit their different glaucoma needs, but many people will be prescribed eye drops. Eye drops are only effective with regular use. Practical tips to help you manage your glaucoma eye drop routine at home can be found at https://glaucoma.uk/care-support/glaucoma-self-care/ 

I would like to speak to someone about how I am feeling about my eye condition.

There are different kinds and levels of support to help you with your emotional needs. Counselling, emotional support, peer-to-peer groups are all ways to help you if you are feeling emotional, lonely and isolated, or confused and anxious.

Sometimes simply knowing more about your condition and what it entails can help you cope emotionally. Also, speaking to someone who understands the condition puts everything in perspective and may help you to feel less alone.

The following sight loss charities offer emotional support or peer groups:

[curated list from perspectif]

Signs of depression.

Clinical depression is a possible result of losing sight. This is more than a low mood that will disappear over time. Depression is persistent and doesn’t seem to go away. The good news is that with the right treatment and support, a full recovery is possible.

If you are experiencing a feeling of persistent sadness, try asking yourself the following questions:

If you answer yes to either of these, you ought to see a GP in the first instance. Many people wait a long time before seeking help for depression, but it's best not to delay. The sooner you see a doctor, the sooner you can be on the way to recovery.

More on depression can be found at https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/depression-in-adults/overview/