The deadly virus has created enough panic in everyone’s mind. People feel confused about what they should do and how to take care of their health and wellbeing. For example, you may worry about visiting your ophthalmologist’s clinic for regular eye checkups or emergencies. It may not be comfortable for you to step out in these difficult times. However, certain things are unavoidable. You cannot ignore your eye health, says David JC Cutler. So, don’t cancel or postpone your appointment.
David JC Cutler says you have to follow the right methods to ensure your safety. Ophthalmologists maintain hygiene and COVID-19 rules to continue to serve their patients hesitation-free. When you visit them, make sure to put on a face mask and be aware of the latest guidelines.
David JC Cutler: COVID-19-related changes for routine and urgent eyecare
Safe distancing is the main thing in keeping the virus spread in check. People exposed to the virus usually witness symptoms like breathlessness, cough, and fever in 2 to 14 days. In severe cases, a patient can suffer from pneumonia and even die. For everyone’s wellbeing, most eye clinics offer both virtual and in-person appointments based on the condition. And they are more careful with in-person meetings. Hence, you don’t have to stress. Just pay attention to what you need to do.
Basic eye care appointment guidelines
When you visit the clinic, you must wear a mask or ask for one before entering the doctor’s office. Mask should stay on your face unless you have to remove it for examination. Clinics have installed HEPA air filters for better air circulation as per CDC instructions. So you can expect the temperature to be a little different. But you have to adapt to it because this arrangement is for reducing the risk of virus spread.
Furthermore, you may have to wait for your turn outside the building or in your car. It is again a COVID-19 prevention technique for everyone’s benefit. So don’t worry if you can’t enter the waiting room.
Experts suggest that people should go alone in the building unless it is impossible. It would help reduce crowding in the clinic. Don’t forget to check your temperature while you get inside. Plus, your eye specialist would wear a face shield, gloves, goggles, and other things. You may not get a chance to speak until your doctor asks you something.
Make sure you cancel the appointment if you experience fever or cough or have been in the company of an infected person. Your doctor needs to know about these things. If it is not an emergency, you may have to wait for a checkup for some more time. However, the doctor can check your eyes in case of a crisis in a special room. When they check your eyes, you must take care of coughing and sneezing. Cover your face with tissue paper to avoid releasing droplets in the air that can be infectious.
In the end, it is essential to know that certain eye conditions cannot wait. For example, if you face diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration, you would need eye injections on time. So it becomes unavoidable. Similarly, blurriness or blank spots in the vision need immediate attention.
In essence, educate yourself about these things so that you can make the right decision for your health beyond fear.