Most people understand both optometrists and ophthalmologists treat patients for eye conditions. However, there is often confusion between the two professions. Here is important information to explain the differences and similarities, and help you choose the best ophthalmologists Temecula, CA has to offer.
What Does an Ophthalmologist Do?
If you have a medical condition which affects the eyes, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist. This person is a licensed physician, which means he or she has attended college and graduated from medical school. Also known as an eye specialist, the ophthalmologist often performs intricate eye surgical procedures. Here are some of the conditions an ophthalmologist treats:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Conjunctivitis
- Ptosis – commonly called droopy eyelid
- Retinal cancer
- Many types of eye condition which can be corrected with glasses
Some ophthalmologists specialize in certain types of eye care. For example, some mostly perform surgeries. Also, a neuro-ophthalmologist specializes in eye/brain conditions like tumors which affect the eyes and conditions of the optic nerve.
What Do Optometrists in Temecula CA Do?
An optometrist does not attend medical school. However, these doctors must undergo a rigorous training program in Optometry School. This training is similar to medical school but focuses on eye problems. An optometrist is considered to be a doctor but not a medical doctor. Optometrists must complete many hours of on job the training in clinical conditions in order to receive their degrees.
Optometrists in Temecula CA perform a wide range of eye services for their patients, including:
General vision care – including eye exams and an optometrist can treat you for several types of problems like strabismus (eyes turned outward) or amblyopia (lazy eye conditions).
- Diagnosing and treating conditions like cataracts, pink eye, and glaucoma.
- Eye injury and diseases
- Prescriptions for eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Before and after surgical care
- Can help you with vision therapy
- Can prescribe antibiotic medications for infections
Ophthalmologists and optometrists in Temecula, CA often work together, to give patients the best possible treatment. This is why many eye treatment centers provide both doctors for their patients, so they can offer complete eye services.
What About Opticians?
An optician is not an eye doctor like an ophthalmologist or optometrist. These people are there to help you get the right kind of eye glasses for your needs. They can also assist you with contact lens selections. You have many eye professionals in which to choose in Temecula CA, and if you have not had an exam in several years, now could be a good time to make an appointment.
Temecula Eye Center Optometry has ophthalmologists and optometrists in Temecula, CA. To explore all the eye and vision services we offer, visit us online today or check our Facebook page.
