Eye Doctors and Eye Care
Are you having vision problems? You may need to visit an eye doctor or
an optometrist for all of your eye care needs. Eye care services range
from treating redness and irritation to identifying lazy eyes. You can
also visit a surgeon for laser surgery. These are some helpful terms
when dealing with an eye care professional.
Ophthalmology - The study of the anatomy of the eye and of the diseases
that affect it. An Ophthalmologist is commonly referred to as an “eye
doctor.”
Optometrist - A vision care specialist who performs eye tests and basic
exams. They are qualified to diagnose diseases of the eye and is usually
the first person you see when going to an ophthalmologist’s office.
Optician - Someone who is equipped to handle and fill prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses.
Prescription - This determines the correction that needs to be made to
your vision whether you are near or far sited. This is usually what
determines the thickness of the lenses you need in order to correct your
vision.
Cataracts - A cataract is a clouding of the lens in your eye. It affects your vision. Cataracts
are very common in older people. By age 80, more than half of all people in the United States either have a
cataract or have had cataract surgery.
Cataracts usually develop slowly. New glasses, brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses
or magnifying lenses can help at first. Surgery is also an option. It involves removing the
cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. Wearing sunglasses and a hat with a
brim to block ultraviolet sunlight may help to delay cataracts. NIH: National Eye Institute
Lasik - This is a laser surgery performed by an Ophthalmologist surgeon
after an exam and tests for certain eye problems are performed and a
disease is detected. You can visit an eye care center or clinic to
receive this treatment.
Glaucoma - A disease that affects the vision, damaging it until the eye
is completely blind. Can be treated, but damage already done can be
permanent. |