The eye doctor you pick is dependent on the health needs and the overall condition of the eyes. For basic eye care, you can go to an optometrist, but when it comes to eye or visual consultation, an eye doctor or specialist is your best option.
Through an online search, there are many types of optometry specialists, this means it might be confusing in whom you must approach.
These are several of the optometry specialists you may consider:
Optometrists – are eye care professionals who focus in examining eyes for vision problems. Similar to ophthalmologists, they also correct refractive errors by giving contact lenses or eyeglasses to patients. You may also visit them if you need vision therapy or low vision care. They do not conduct operation but may participate in a patient’s pre- or post-operative care. Optometrists are also qualified to fit contact lenses.
Ophthalmologist – is a medical doctor (MD) who specializes in surgical and medical procedures. Ophthalmologists are the best option for patients with eye injuries, eye disease, or even complicated vision concerns. They are trained to perform eye examinations, prescribe medications, and perform eye surgery. You may also approach them when you need prescriptions for eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Opticians – are technicians skilled and knowledgeable in designing, verifying and fitting contact lenses, eyeglass frames, eyeglass lenses, as well as other devices to correct a patient’s eyesight. Opticians are not permitted to treat as well as diagnose eye diseases.
We all depend on our eyesight from the moment we wake up in the morning up until we sleep at night. Without better vision, one’s ability to read, watch, or drive can drastically change. In addition, certain changes in our vision can also cause other health issues such as migraine. There are a lot of health factors that can affect our eyesight if we do not take care of them, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. You may also have higher risk in getting certain eye conditions if you have a family member with eye disease. Most of the time, eye problems are unnoticeable and are hard to detect. Thus, it is advisable to have your eyes checked by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist, especially if you are aged 40 or above. This is to stop any eye problems from occurring or worsening. Annual exams are advised even if there is no pathology after carrying out a through eye exam.
Other factors that may help you find the reliable doctor are:
Family, relatives, or friend’s recommendation – know anyone using prescription glasses or contact lenses? Ask their opinion for a trusted eye doctor in the area.
Your current doctor’s recommendation – if you already have a reliable pediatrician or obstetrician/gynecologist, you may inquire them for recommendations. He or she will surely have a list of doctors you can trust. Knowing you as well as your family’s health history, they would also have an idea of who would be right for your needs.
Professional organizations’ recommendation – if you still could not see an eye doctor that match your needs, you may visit the sites of known organizations in your country. They can offer ways for you to find the ideal local eye doctors in your area.
Contact Atlas Eye for quality eye services at great prices. You may also visit their site for more information.
