Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist
Eye doctors are a key part of your health care team. Not only do we care for your eye health, we also play a key role in your overall health. It is important to find the right doctor for your needs.
Eye doctors are either optometrists or ophthalmologists. An optometrist performs eye exams and fits you for prescription glasses or contact lenses. He or she can also prescribe eye-related medications. An optometrist earns a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. Optometrists are a good choice if you just need routine eye care.
An ophthalmologist is a more specialized eye doctor who is trained to do everything that an optometrist can do and more. Ophthalmologists diagnose eye diseases and certain medical conditions, and they also perform eye surgeries. Ophthalmologists either have a medical doctor (MD) degree or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. Because they are medical doctors, ophthalmologists typically specialize in a specific area of eye care, such as a particular type of surgery or pediatric care
Do I need an ophthalmologist?
If you have eye disease of any kind, a family history of eye disease, or a condition like diabetes that can cause eye complications like diabetic retinopathy, you should consider seeing an ophthalmologist. If you have an eye injury, it will need to be treated by an ophthalmologist.
We need to care for our eyes at any age, but for most people, the eyes remain healthy up until age 40. Our eye doctors in Blandon PA recommend an annual comprehensive eye exam for people aged 20-29 and at least two eye exams per year for individuals aged 30-39. Between the ages of 40 to 65, people are more likely to experience age-related eye diseases. After age 65, conditions like age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts are more likely to occur. Your genetics can also be an issue, as people of certain races are more prone to certain diseases.
Regardless of your situation, early detection is key. The doctors may recommend more frequent visits if you have an eye condition. However, if you experience any of the symptoms below, schedule with us right away:
- Sudden changes in vision
- Eye pain
- Dry eyes
- Itchy or burning eyes
- Light flashes
- Spots (floaters)
- Dark spots or wavy lines
An Important Decision
Choosing an eye care provider is an important health care decision. After all, you will be trusting this person for years to come to safeguard your precious eyesight so that you can maintain a lifetime of good vision. The eye doctors at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania in Blandon PA have the expertise and experience to fulfill all your eye care needs, so call us today to schedule your appointment.
