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Despite experiencing no symptoms, my glaucoma was detected by my optician when testing for reading glasses in 1995.
He referred me to specialist prescribed drops which, over the years have included Xalatan and Lumigan. I have also been using Isopto Carpine, Azopt and Ganfort for several years and they have kept my pressures steady, by administering drops consistently. In 1997 and 1998, I had cataracts removed, but still wear glasses.
Because I recently turned 75 and have glaucoma, I had the required health medical check with my GP (which I passed) as well as field tests with both my optician and ophthalmologist. I did not meet the driving criteria and had to, unwillingly, surrender my licence. The fitness to drive criteria article in the latest Glaucoma News was very helpful and I will view a similar Q&A event in March.
Losing my licence was difficult, but I was lucky to have driven for the last 59 years. As my optician said, “You think you can see, but you can’t see well enough to drive”.
Family and friends were surprised by my loss of licence but my experience has further encouraged them to be tested regularly.
Losing my licence was difficult, but I was lucky to have driven for the last 59 years. As my optician said, “You think you can see, but you can’t see well enough to drive".Clair
Living in York Peninsula community two hour's drive from Adelaide and with no optometrist in her local community, Debra booked an appointment as soon as she could. That’s when she received her life changing diagnosis.
When Bette Smith’s cousin told her they had glaucoma in the family, she did what all Australians should be doing, she got her eyes checked.
My mother was diagnosed with glaucoma when she was about seventy, so I was closely monitored. When there were indicators that I could be following the same path, I was referred to a glaucoma specialist.