Have you ever wondered what an ophthalmologist does? The consonant-heavy name contains a hint. It's a Greek word referring to someone who specializes in eyes; in other words, it's a word for an eye care professional. You may be thinking "don't you mean optometrist?" Although both can issue an eye test and prescribe corrective eyewear, an ophthalmologist is a full-fledged medical doctor. The difference between the two is similar to the difference between the general practitioner or family doctor who you see on a regular basis and the medical specialist that you'd make an appointment with to address a specific issue.
In other words, an ophthalmologist can diagnose problems, prescribe medication, perform surgery, and even conduct scientific research. Most of these medical professionals further specialize their skills within a particular niche, whether by learning everything they can about a specific part of the 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 impair vision, but may also eventually lead to blindness. When recommended by 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 elective procedures exist for those wishing to liberate themselves from the burden of corrective eyewear. It's possible for medical professionals to perform refractive surgery, which can reverse the most common of impairments, like nearsightedness.
As miraculous 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 lead to blindness, one's best protection is an early diagnosis. Surgeries and medications are available that can stop or delay its progression, but any vision loss suffered beforehand is irreversible. Though in many ways similar to cataracts, which primarily affect adults over 40, glaucoma has no age boundaries, especially in families that have a history of it. Even the mildest eye pain or change in perception may merit a visit 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 exam. Most people already get their vision checked every few years for their driver's license.
In other words, an ophthalmologist can diagnose problems, prescribe medication, perform surgery, and even conduct scientific research. Most of these medical professionals further specialize their skills within a particular niche, whether by learning everything they can about a specific part of the 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 impair vision, but may also eventually lead to blindness. When recommended by 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 elective procedures exist for those wishing to liberate themselves from the burden of corrective eyewear. It's possible for medical professionals to perform refractive surgery, which can reverse the most common of impairments, like nearsightedness.
As miraculous 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 lead to blindness, one's best protection is an early diagnosis. Surgeries and medications are available that can stop or delay its progression, but any vision loss suffered beforehand is irreversible. Though in many ways similar to cataracts, which primarily affect adults over 40, glaucoma has no age boundaries, especially in families that have a history of it. Even the mildest eye pain or change in perception may merit a visit 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 exam. Most people already get their vision checked every few years for their driver's license.
When they're planning a visit to an ophthalmologist, Malden residents should consult http://www.baystateexcellentvision.com/Doctors/.
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