Optometrists are eye care professionals who provide primary vision care ranging from sight testing and correction to the diagnosis, treatment and management of vision changes. An optometrist is not a medical doctor . ... An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care.
Which is better an optometrist or ophthalmologist?
“Optometrists often specialize in difficult contact lens fittings, and are often best for that type of examination,” Dr. Wagenberg says. Laser and other surgeries. If you’re considering laser surgery or need other surgeries, an ophthalmologist is the right choice.
When should I see an ophthalmologist?
You should see an ophthalmologist if you experience physical changes to your eyes , such as crossed eyes or eyes that turn inwards, outwards, upwards or downwards. Make an appointment with an ophthalmologist right away if you have eye pain, as this might be a symptom of a serious problem.
Can an optometrist diagnose eye diseases?
Optometrists can also uncover other health problems just by examining your eyes. Not only can they diagnose eye diseases but they can diagnose other diseases in the body like diabetes and hypertension.
Should I see an optometrist or an ophthalmologist for eye infection?
For injections of the eye or for eye infections, that do not require surgery, an optometrist can provide the same care as an ophthalmologist . However, for eye conditions that require extensive treatment, including surgery, you need to see a full-service eye doctor or an ophthalmologist.
What are the 3 types of eye doctors?
- Ophthalmologist. An ophthalmologist — Eye M.D. — is a medical or osteopathic doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. ...
- Optometrist. ...
- Optician. ...
- Safeguard your vision.
When should I see an ophthalmologist rather than an optometrist?
Visit an optometrist for routine eye care, such as a yearly eye exam or refilling an eyeglass, contact lens, or eye medication prescription. Visit an ophthalmologist for medical and surgical treatment of serious eye conditions , such as glaucoma, cataracts, and laser eye surgery.
Can an optometrist treat glaucoma?
Optometrists in California CAN:
Diagnose and treat glaucoma (except angle closure glaucoma and persons under 18 years of age) Use topical medications (including steroids and antivirals)
Can optometrists prescribe medication?
Optometrists with therapeutic qualifications are able to prescribe topical medications for the management of ocular conditions such as allergies or the treatment of glaucoma, which may be in conjunction with an ophthalmologist.
Can an optometrist become an ophthalmologist?
An optometrist can become an ophthalmologist , but it is not a quick transition. ... To become an ophthalmologist, an optometrist must complete an MD or Ph. D. program, plus a three-year residency and one-year internship.
Do optometrists dilate eyes?
Your eye doctor may choose to dilate your eyes during your eye exam . This is true whether you have an annual eye exam or whether it has been a while since you visited an optometrist. There are several factors that help determine whether the optometrist dilates your eyes.
Can an optometrist detect cataracts?
Eye cataracts can be diagnosed by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist by performing a series of tests, usually included in a comprehensive eye examination.
Can an optometrist detect macular degeneration?
To check for macular degeneration, an ophthalmologist or optometrist will perform a comprehensive eye exam . By dilating your eyes, your healthcare provider will be able to see a magnified view of the macula.
Can optometrist treat eye scratch?
Like your skin, the surface of your eyeballs can become scratched . Corneal abrasions can be mild and hard to detect or far more serious, but all of these injuries should be assessed by an optometrist.
Can optometrist diagnose retinal detachment?
How will my eye doctor check for retinal detachment? If you see any warning signs of a retinal detachment, your eye doctor can check your eyes with a dilated eye exam . Your doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate (widen) your pupil and then look at your retina at the back of your eye.
Are optometrist real doctors?
An optometrist is not a medical doctor . They receive a doctor of optometry (OD) degree after completing four years of optometry school, preceded by at least three years of college. ... An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care.
