Calling all Flight Surgeons (and other Medical Personnel) and/or Rated Aviators – Flight Physical Question!

2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 00:12:45 -0400

I have been selected for a UPT slot and this past Tuesday I took my flight physical at Scott, AFB. I thought the physical went well…until the very last station – Optometry. The doc told me that I have “enlarged optical nerves” – which is one potential sign of Glaucoma. He repeatedly told me that he is not diagnosing me with, nor does he think I have Glaucoma because I show no other signs of the condition. He stated he believes my optical nerves are enlarged because it’s just my anatomy, and not due to tissue degradation – which would typically be a sign of the disease otherwise. His exact words were “You have fantastic vision and your eyes look healthy”. I even passed the stereo-vision profile using that stupid "Dot Test" -- they didn't have to confirm my depth perception with the ancillary tests. Anyway, the Optometrist simply said “I just have to make a note of this in your file” and “not to be overly concerned”. Of course, after he brought it up, it’s kind of hard to dismiss as unimportant. I have had many, many eyes exams by both the military and the private sector – this is the first time it’s ever been mentioned. That said, this news is a little unsettling. Anyway, I asked him if this would require additional testing and/or a waiver. He said “possibly” but wasn’t sure. He said HQ AETC may require additional testing before certifying my physical and they may not.

Has anyone dealt with this issue or something similar during the flight physical certification process? Do I have a fighting chance or does it sound like I am boned?

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Oct 30 at 2015 9:27 AM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 09:27:50 -0400

I worked Physical Exams and Standards for a bit before retirement, but I have to admit, I have never heard of "Enlarged Optic Nerves" nor am I familiar with testing for it. HQ AETC may require additional testing, but again, I am unsure as to what that would be. The Instruction that would cover it would be AFI 48-123. I do find it odd that the Flight Doc that accomplished your exam, or the Tech that is processing it couldn't have given you more/better information referencing your exam. But if HQ AETC does require additional testing, they (The Tech processing your exam) will definitely contact you.

Response by TSgt David L. made Oct 30 at 2015 11:44 AM

TSgt David L. — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 11:44:52 -0400

2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member, I have the same thing. They watched me for 5ish years with NO change. So it isn't a big deal, IF you have the same prognosis as I have.

Here's how a surprisingly concerned (and the first guy to even noticed it) eye dude (Major) at the base clinic explained it. There is a passage for light to come in to the back of the eye. Correlate that with a donut. We have a larger donut hole than most folks have. As long as the donut hole doesn't change we are good to go. Mine hasn't changed for 6-7 years now, so, no worries.

The only thing I have ever noticed is that I have always been overly light sensitive. So I always have had to wear sun glasses outside. Is it related? Don't know, or they couldn't say either way, but it makes sense to me now.
I hope this helps. Ask your eye dude if this jives with what I have told you.
Good luck,
Dave

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Oct 30 at 2015 12:07 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 12:07:57 -0400

For something like this, IF it is deemed a need to evaluate it further, HQ AETC will tell the base what tests it needs. Often times, the extra testing is done and all gets finished up. In a limited few instances, it is a deny to fly, and the middle ground is that if anyone sees it as a non-issue, but something to cover for, they may require a waiver (takes some time, but isn't difficult). Good luck!

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 2:24 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 14:24:48 -0400

I had several bros get waivers and continue to UPT or another rated course. If they werent able to get it waived they were reclassified into a non rated job. Worst case you will still go to OTS, but try your best to keep that pilot slot!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 5 at 2018 10:27 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 10:27:44 -0400

At least he documented the issue in your medical records. Make sure you keep copies of all your medical treatment/interventions. Later on when you’ve left the service, possessing all your records will come in handy for VA purposes.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Oct 5 at 2018 10:42 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 10:42:49 -0400

First off, hang in there! You have nothing to lose by allowing the Air Force to do additional testing. Also, you can apply for a waiver if necessary. It's just paperwork. Make every reasonable effort to get past the physical and into pilot training. It's well worth the effort.