The study of the eye and its accompanying treatments and operations is referred to as medical ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists are doctors who specialize in this field. We realize it’s a bit of a tongue twister. The term, like many medical terms, has a Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek terms ophthal/ophthalmos (means “eye”) and logia (means “study” or “discourse”).
But what exactly is an ophthalmologist? What exactly do they do? What distinguishes them from opticians and optometrists? And when would you require one? Everything you need to know can be found right here.
There are three kinds of eye care professionals:
When it’s time to get your eyes tested, it’s critical that you see the correct doctor. Opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists all play critical roles in providing patients with eye care advice and treatment. However, the training, competence, and tasks of each type of practitioner differ greatly. Here’s a breakdown to help you comprehend more thoroughly.
Opticians
Opticians are technicians who fit eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions from ophthalmologists or optometrists. An optician’s role involves assisting you in selecting eyeglass frames and offering information about different types of lenses and lens coatings, among other things. Opticians are not able to perform eye exams, prescribe prescriptions, diagnose, or treat eye diseases.
Optometrists
Optometrists are not physicians of medicine (MDs). However, after graduating from college, students attend four years of optometry school. They are authorized to execute more duties than opticians. An optometrist can do eye exams and vision tests, as well as prescribe medication, corrective lenses, and contact lenses. They are unable to do eye surgery, but they can diagnose and treat vision abnormalities as well as some eye problems and diseases.
Ophthalmologists
A medical or osteopathic doctor with several years of school and training is an ophthalmologist. They have a college degree and at least eight years of further study to become qualified MDs, and they specialize in eye and vision treatment. Some have completed additional fellowships to narrow their focus on the eye, allowing them to specialize in areas such as:
- Treatment for glaucoma
- Retinal degeneration
- Cornea operation
- Pediatrics
- Oncology of the eye
- Neurology of the eye
- Cosmetic surgery
- Plastic and reconstructive surgery
So, what exactly does an ophthalmologist do? In a nutshell, they are specialists who can perform all of the functions of an optician and optometrist and more. They are authorized to:
Execute eye exams and vision testing
Prescriptions for eye medicine, corrective eyewear, and contact lenses should be written.
Use specialist ophthalmic medical equipment.
Diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases
Provide eye surgery and follow-up care.
Conduct scientific studies on eye illnesses and eyesight problems.
The comprehensive knowledge of an ophthalmologist allows them to spot various health problems that may be unrelated to your vision and recommend you to a specialist. Anomalies in pupil size, for example, can indicate Horners Syndrome, multiple sclerosis, or an unfavorable reaction to prescription medication. As a result, ophthalmologists collaborate with your primary care physician and other medical specialists to maintain your overall health and to provide specialized care for eye and vision disorders.
For more information, visit our website www.thevisionzoneclinic.com