An optometrist is an eye care professional trained to diagnose and treat various eye conditions and diseases. They address visual system disorders, helping improve the health of your eyes throughout your lifetime. At Collins Eye Center, we provide high-tech eye care with a personalized experience tailored to each of our patients. Here are some conditions an optometrist treats and manages:
Performing Eye Exams
Optometrists perform comprehensive eye exams, which help detect potential concerns early and support long-term eye health. Examinations involve a detailed assessment of your entire visual system. Because they evaluate both the function and structure of your eyes, exams provide a complete picture of your eye health. During a comprehensive eye exam, an optometrist typically:
- Checks your visual acuity and measures refraction
- Assesses eye muscle movement and coordination
- Measures eye pressure to screen for glaucoma
- Examines the optic nerve and retina for any anomalies
- Discuss your personal and family medical history relevant to eye health
An eye exam often reveals refractive errors. These are often astigmatism, farsightedness (hyperopia), and nearsightedness (myopia). Doctors may prescribe corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, to help improve your vision.
Eye doctors also examine the internal and external structures of your eyes, which enables them to detect early signs of eye diseases or underlying health issues. Changes in your retina can indicate conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Early detection allows them to intervene early, helping preserve your vision.
Managing Vision Conditions
If you have vision conditions, an eye doctor helps manage them effectively and improve your sight. Myopia is a refractive error that may be prevalent among children. An eye-care provider often uses specialized contact lenses, like multifocal lenses, to slow its progression. These lenses are designed to minimize the risk of myopia developing, protect long-term eye health, and reduce complications later in life.
Eye doctors perform specialized contact lens exams to help you find lenses that fit well. These exams typically involve measurements of your eye’s curvature and surface, as well as an evaluation of your tear film quality. Regular vision monitoring helps prevent infections or corneal damage, keeping contact lenses safe and comfortable. At Collins Eye Center, our eye doctors specialize in comprehensive myopia management and contact lens fittings, utilizing advanced techniques to enhance and preserve your vision.
Treating Eye Disorders
Some eye doctors specialize in treating eye disorders, such as infections, glaucoma, and cataracts. Doctors can treat infections like pink eye or allergic reactions, and they may prescribe medication for treatment. Medications include antibiotic eye drops for treating bacterial infections and antihistamine drops for managing allergies.
Glaucoma occurs when fluid pressure in the eye increases. This can lead to optic nerve damage, loss of nerve fibers, and a decline in vision. Cataracts cloud the eye’s lens, making it difficult to drive, read, or see facial expressions. For conditions like these, eye specialists play a role in several key areas:
- Monitoring progression: They monitor the progression of these diseases.
- Co-management with specialists: While surgery may be performed by an ophthalmologist, eye doctors often co-manage patient care with specialists when advanced treatment is required.
- Comprehensive eye health: Eye doctors provide a comprehensive approach to maintaining eye health, including prescribing visual aids like glasses and medications, to reduce the effects of these disorders.
Find an Optometrist Today
An optometrist plays a crucial role in helping you maintain clear vision, as they work to preserve your eye health throughout all stages of your life. At Collins Eye Center, we deliver comprehensive care to monitor and treat conditions such as dry eye, macular degeneration, and eye strain. Contact us today to schedule an eye examination and take a step toward better eye health.
