Hyperopia (hypermetropia) is a common eye condition that causes distant objects to appear blurry. It is often caused by the eyeball being too short or the cornea being too flat. Astigmatism is another common eye condition that causes blurred vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea. Presbyopia and other age-related eye problems can also cause blurred vision, as can diplopia (double vision).
Low vision is a condition in which a person's vision cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Optometrists are highly trained professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of eye diseases. These include conditions caused by infections, such as syphilis, herpes, chlamydia, HIV, gonorrhea, genital warts, and pubic lice. Optometrists can also diagnose retinal disorders and refer patients to ophthalmologists for specialized treatment.
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is another eye condition that optometrists are qualified to diagnose and treat. This condition makes it difficult to focus on distant objects. While optometrists can prescribe eyeglasses to help with the symptoms of myopia, surgery may be necessary in some cases. Opticians are technicians who work in optometrist or doctor's offices or in retail stores that specialize in eyewear and optical products.
They use prescriptions provided by optometrists or ophthalmologists to design and adjust lenses and eyeglass frames. If you are considering undergoing vision correction surgery such as LASIK or PRK, you will need to visit an ophthalmologist for the procedure. However, most eye surgeons who specialize in LASIK surgery work closely with optometrists to evaluate and care for surgical patients before and after the operation. Optometrists are not usually trained or authorized to perform eye surgery but they can provide preoperative and postoperative care related to eye surgery.
When it comes to scheduling an appointment with an eye doctor, it can be difficult to decide whether you need to see an optometrist or an ophthalmologist. If your eyes are generally healthy and only require routine exams, either one will be able to address your needs. However, if you need medical treatment for an eye condition, your optometrist may refer you to an ophthalmologist for specialized care. Regular check-ups with your optometrist or other healthcare provider can help identify any potential problems early on.