How high is high altitude in pneumatic retinopexy?

[DaphneL]

I suffered a small detachment of my retina 3 weeks ago and was treated with cryotherapy and retinopexy. My doctor has deemed the procedure very successful so far and has allowed me to go back to exercising. As usual, even with a list I rarely remember to ask him all my questions! I am a mountain climber and would love to do a little climbing but realize I can't go into high altitude. I live in Marin County and have rocks here that allow climbing- nothing higher than 2000 feet above sea level, however. How high is high altitude for my procedure?

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear DaphneL,

To my knowledge, there is no standard reference for answering this question.  I would discuss this with your doctor.  Altitude can affect the eye.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California

[DaphneL]

HI Doctor Feldman,

Thanks for taking the time to answer my question but I am afraid you didn't quite get what I was asking. My doctor has told me that I can climb again, in fact I just got back from my climbing gym. My question was, what is considered high altitude. After all, if one lives near a huge mountain, as I do, just driving near the top of it would take me up 2000 feet in less than thirty minutes from my house.

Again, the question was, what is considered high altitude when one has had a pneumatic retinopexy?

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear DaphneL,

I would definitely ask your doctor this question as he will know what activities you should or not do.  If the hole is well healed without any bubbles in your eye, you may be able to resume full activity.  However, you should only listen to the advice your doctor gives you.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California