Ophthalmology is a medical-surgical and optical specialty that deals with the anatomy, physiology, and conditions of the eye.
When to consult an ophthalmologist and how is the consultation carried out? What is the difference with the ophthalmologist? Focus on the profession of ophthalmologist and its characteristics.
Ophthalmology, what is it?
Ophthalmology is a surgical specialty that deals with the structure and functioning of the eye, as well as the diseases and abnormalities that affect them.
Some ophthalmologists (or ophthalmologists) can direct their activity towards sub-specialties, and in particular:
- cataract surgery;
- refractive surgery;
- retinal diseases;
- glaucoma.
Difference Between Ophthalmologists and Ophthalmology
Ophthalmologists and Ophthalmologys designate one and the same profession, there is no difference between the two names.
However, the term ophthalmologist is the most widely used today.
When to consult an ophthalmologist?
The ophthalmologist is interested in many conditions, including:
- a visual defect, such as myopia, presbyopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism;
- retinal detachment;
- a cataract;
- age-related macular degeneration (AMD);
- glaucoma;
- diabetic retinopathy.
It is the ophthalmologist who prescribes the appropriate corrective lenses, depending on the patient’s pathology.
Certain diseases are recognized as being able to influence the integrity and functioning of the eye. For example:
- diabetes ;
- high blood pressure ;
- certain rheumatisms;
- certain infectious diseases;
- or neurological diseases.
What does the ophthalmologist do?
The ophthalmologist is likely to offer optical, medical, and surgical care.
To arrive at a diagnosis and attempt to treat the patient, the ophthalmologist:
- begins with an interrogation, in particular, to identify any personal or family history;
- perform a rigorous clinical examination. For example, he examines the fundus of the eyes, carries out a complete verification of the ocular environments, takes the intraocular pressure, or performs vision tests;
- can perform surgical procedures, such as refractive surgery, eyelids, cataracts, glaucoma, or even macular surgery.
The specialist also plays an important role in the detection and prevention of diseases affecting the eye.
Depending on the patient’s problem, the ophthalmologist may in particular have to use:
- a biomicroscope (or slit lamp), to examine the different structures of the eye at high magnification;
- a tonometer, to measure intraocular pressure;
- an ophthalmoscope, to examine the back of the eye;
- a laser, for refractive surgery for example.
What are the risks during the consultation with an ophthalmologist?
Consultation with an ophthalmologist does not entail any particular risks for the patient.
However, if the ophthalmologist must perform a surgical procedure, certain complications are possible, and it is his role to explain them to you clearly.
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