Have you ever wondered what an ophthalmologist does? The consonant-heavy name has a hint. It’s a Greek word referring to someone who focuses on eyes; in other words, it’s a word for an eye care professional. You may be thinking “don’t you mean optometrist? inch Although both can issue ophthalmology near meophthalmic opticianpediatric ophthalmology an eye fixed make sure order corrective eye wear, an ophthalmologist is a full-fledged medical professional. The difference between the two is just like the difference between the general practitioner or family doctor who you see on a regular basis and the medical specialist that you’d schedulae an appoitment with to treat a specific issue.

In other words, an ophthalmologist can detect problems, order medication, perform surgery, and even conduct scientific research. Most of these medical experts further specialize their skills within a particular niche, whether by learning everything they can about a specific the main eye, such as the retina or cornea, or by mastering a particular technique or procedure.

One of the most common issues treated by eye doctors is cataracts. Cataracts, which mostly affect people over 40, can not only hinder vision, but may also eventually lead to blindness. When recommended because of your eye doctor, cataract surgery has a very high success rate and can potentially restore 20/20 vision in a patient. Vision restoration of this magnitude, however, is not exclusive to those suffering from cataracts. Many aesthetic procedures exist for those desperate to liberate themselves from the burden of corrective eye wear. Possibly for medical experts to perform refractive surgery, which can reverse the most common of impairments, like nearsightedness.

As remarkable as these medical feats seem, some miracles are still waiting in the wings. Many subspecialists focus their energy on the battle against glaucoma. This particular ailment, like diabetes, has no cure. As it can certainly lead to blindness, one’s best protection is an early analysis. Operations and medications are available that can stop or delay its development, but any vision loss suffered beforehand is irreparable. Though often similar to cataracts, which primarily affect adults over 40, glaucoma has no age limits, especially in families that have a history of computer. Even the mildest eye pain or change in perception may merit a try to an ophthalmologist, as they are your first and best defense.

Of course, not all ocular issues are solely vision related, and even people with 20/20 vision may still find themselves in need of professional eye care. An ophthalmologist can help with conditions like chronically dry eyes and pinkeye. It’s also a good idea for everyone, regardless of the state of their vision, to routinely undergo an eye fixed quiz. Most people already get their vision checked every few years for their driver’s license.