Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine and surgery which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. An ophthalmologist is a specialist in ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists are allowed to use medications to treat eye diseases, implement laser therapy, and perform surgery when needed. Ophthalmologists may participate in academic research on the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.
You should consult an ophthalmologist if you have these symptoms:
- Blurred vision
- Eye redness
- Blurred vision
- Burning sensation in the eye
- Flaky eyelid
- Central vision loss
- Floaters
- Cloudy vision
- Foreign body in the eye
- Color blindness
- Glare
- Distorted vision
- Halos around lights
- Double vision
- Itchy watery eyes
- Eye discharge
- Swollen eyes
- Eye flashes
- Eye pain
- Tunnel vision
Common ophthalmic procedures performed are
- diagnosis and monitoring of moderate-to-severe eye conditions
- cataract surgery
- glaucoma surgery
- refractive surgery to correct vision
- Cancer treatment
- reconstructive surgery to repair trauma or birth abnormalities, such as crossed eyes
- chronic or severe tear duct infections or blockages
- neoplasm (tumor, cyst, or foreign object) removal
- monitoring or consulting on cases relating to other conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy or immune conditions
- injections around the eyes and face to alter facial structure function and appearance
- repairing torn or detached retinas
- corneal transplants