To keep the eyes in the best of health, it is important to have regular checkups with an optometrist. However, eye checkups are not the only service an optometrist offers to patients. Optometrists often provide care for their patients from childhood throughout their entire lives. These are some of the different types of eye care that optometrists commonly provide.
Examinations
Optometrists perform eye examinations on a daily basis. This is done to ensure that a patient has healthy eyes and that they are working properly. During the examination, the optometrist may determine whether the patient needs corrective lenses or if there are any vision disorders present. By going for yearly eye exams, it is easier to keep a close watch on the progression of any eye disorders and catch any new changes early on.
Treating Eye Diseases or Injuries
If patients have certain eye diseases that can be treated with medications, an optometrist can provide this treatment. For instance, if a patient has conjunctivitis, this condition is normally treated with antibiotic eye drops. The optometrist can prescribe this medication so the condition will be treated properly. If a patient comes in with a minor injury that does not require surgery, such as a scratch on the inside of the eye, the optometrist will examine the eye to determine the severity. If the eye can be treated with medication, the optometrist can prescribe it and advise the patient how to use it.
Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses
If a patient has vision problems, they may go to the optometrist for treatment. After a thorough exam to determine what prescription is needed to correct the vision problems, the optometrist can fit and supply the patient with eyeglasses or contact lenses. If adjustments need to be made after getting corrective lenses, the optometrist can also provide this service. Any needed repairs or replacement of the corrective lenses can also be done by the optometrist.
Referrals
If a patient has a severe eye condition that may require treatment by an ophthalmologist, medical doctor, or another specialist, the optometrist can refer the patient to an eye care provider that can properly treat him. This may include conditions such as cataracts or glaucoma that need to be treated by surgery or other specialized medical treatments.
Optometrists also work with communities by providing vision screenings to students at schools or employees at businesses that require workers to have the best vision possible. They may also provide follow up care for those who have had surgical procedures or other types of medical treatments performed on their eyes to ensure their eyes are healing properly.
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