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Optometrist, ophthalmologist, optician…are they all the same? And, if not, what do each of them do? These are common questions asked by many since they're often confused and the terms used interchangeably. But each eye specialist is different and caters to specific needs. Take a look (no pun intended). Ophthalmologist An ophthalmologist studies eye care and all aspects to do with eyes. All are medical school graduates so it isn't uncommon to see an ‘M.D.' tag after their name. Some also have a ‘D.O.' tag which stands for ‘doctor of osteopathy', which is the branch of medicine that deals with the musculoskeletal system and the role it plays in health. Ophthalmologists are trained in vision and eye care and will perform eyesight tests as well as prescribe vision correction. They may also perform surgery in addition to prescribing treatment for eye diseases, problems and injuries. Optometrist An optometrist (D.O. which stands for doctor of optometry) is one who has studied optometry which is the branch of medicine that is concerned with the health of eyes. The term, however, is used differently in some countries and certain regions don't consider them physicians. Widely, however, optometrists are physicians who examine, diagnose and treat issues related with the eyes. They can also prescribe vision correction although they aren't licensed to perform surgery except minor procedures like the removal of foreign bodies. Note: optometrists are fighting for surgical rights which will put them on par with ophthalmologists. Optician An optician is a technician and not a doctor who fits patients with vision correction tools like glasses and lenses. They do so upon prescriptions by optometrists and ophthalmologists. They can also make adjustments to glasses and lenses. Each of these specialists plays a vital role in determining eye care and providing treatment. Knowing who's who will make it easier to seek an appointment the next time you need to get your eyes checked. Below is a checklist on what you can expect on your appointment. Medical history screening: The first questions an eye specialist will ask you is about your medical history. These could be any medications you've been taken or are taking, condition of overall health including the eyes and any other medical-related issue. It's important to answer all questions truthfully so that the doctor can make the right evaluation and prescription. Indications of disease: You'll be checked for eye diseases that can affect vision by having you study an Amsler grid or by examining peripheral vision. Eye test: The next on the list is an eye test using an eye chart. The same test you probably went through during school days. Refraction test: If you have vision trouble, the doctor will subject you to a refraction test which is nothing but looking at the eye chart using different lenses. Other checks: Checks such as examining extraocular muscles and pupils are the last on the list of standard tests. This is done by having you look at a moving point while keeping your head still. If no problems are found then you can rejoice in the knowledge of having healthy vision. If not, then expect to be subjected to other tests like color vision test, applanation method and tonometry (for glaucoma), pupillary dilation, ultrasound (for examining the eye's internal structure) and fluorescein angiogram (for retinal blood circulation). Your eyes reveal more about your health than just good or poor visual acuity. Consulting the best optometrist in Dallas can help find the perfect frame and lenses as per your needs. Click here to know more about contact lenses and other services on offer.
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