An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating eye diseases and disorders. When you visit such a specialist, they will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to check for signs of any eye problems. Your ophthalmologist Jacksonville, FL will then recommend the best course of treatment for your particular condition.
You should expect a complete eye exam when you visit the eye specialist. The ophthalmologist will check your vision and the health of your eyes. They will also look for signs of eye problems.
Some of the common eye problems include:
• Myopia, or nearsightedness, is when you can see nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurred.
• Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is the opposite of myopia and refers to a condition in which you can see distant objects clearly, but nearby objects appear blurred.
• Astigmatism is a condition in which the eyes have an irregular shape, which prevents them from focusing light correctly on the retina. As a result, both near and far objects may appear blurred.
These signs indicate that you might need to see an ophthalmologist.
Your vision suddenly changes or diminishes
When such a thing happens, it is always a good idea to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A sudden vision change can indicate a more serious underlying eye condition.
You experience pain in or around your eyes
Eye pain can be caused by several different things, ranging from minor issues like dry eyes to more severe conditions like glaucoma. If you are experiencing pain in or around your eyes, it is best to consult with an ophthalmologist to rule out any serious problems.
You see flashes of light or floaters
Flashes of light or floaters in your vision can signify retinal detachment, a severe medical emergency. If you experience either of these symptoms, you should see an ophthalmologist immediately.
You have red, swollen, or watery eyes
Red, swollen, or watery eyes can be caused by different things, ranging from allergies to infections. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is best to consult an ophthalmologist to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.
You are having trouble seeing at night
If you have difficulty seeing when driving at night or in low-light conditions, it may be a sign of cataracts. Cataracts are a common condition that can usually be treated surgically.
You have a family history of eye disease
If you have a family member diagnosed with an eye disease, you may be more likely to develop the same condition. The earlier you see an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam, the better your chances are of catching any problems early.
You are over the age of 50
Our risk of developing certain eye diseases and conditions increases as we age. For this reason, it is vital to have regular comprehensive eye exams starting at age 50 to avoid any vision problems down the road.
These are just a few signs that may indicate you need to see an ophthalmologist. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have any concerns about your vision, schedule an appointment with an eye specialist at Wolchok Eye Associates, PA, as soon as possible.
