Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat diseases of the eye, and their training includes medical school, an internship, and a residency. An optometrist conducts routine vision exams, but an ophthalmologist also performs eye surgery. Here are four common conditions and their typical eye care treatments:
Cataracts
A cataract clouds the natural lens of the eye, and the change typically develops over several years. Age, diabetes, smoking, and long-term steroid use all raise the risk. When symptoms interfere with reading or driving, your ophthalmologist may recommend lens replacement surgery. Watch for these signs:
- Blurry, cloudy, or dim vision
- Faint glare or halos around lights at night
- Faded or yellowed colors
- Frequent changes to your glasses
A cataract progresses slowly, but it can significantly impact daily activities like reading fine print or driving at night if left untreated. Eye care for this condition is straightforward, and it may involve lens replacement surgery. While the procedure is highly effective, consult your ophthalmologist early if you notice symptoms like increased glare or dulled colors, as early intervention can minimize disruptions to your life.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve at the back of the eye. The optic nerve carries visual signals to the brain, and damage to it may cause permanent vision loss. Most cases develop when fluid builds up and raises pressure inside the eye. Open-angle glaucoma is a major form of this condition.
Early glaucoma may not cause symptoms, so many people miss it for years. Side vision typically fades first, while central vision stays clear until later stages. A dilated eye exam reveals early changes in the optic nerve. Risk may rise for people who have a family history of glaucoma.
If an exam shows high pressure or nerve damage, your ophthalmologist will discuss treatment options. Prescription eye drops are typically the first step. Laser procedures aim to improve fluid drainage, and surgery creates a new drainage path in some cases. Treatment slows further damage but does not reverse existing vision loss.
Floaters
Floaters look like small specks, threads, or cobwebs drifting across your vision. They form when the gel inside the eye, called the vitreous, shrinks and clumps with age. Most floaters are harmless, and many people stop noticing them over time. You may see them more clearly against a bright sky or white wall.
If you notice a sudden increase in floaters, contact an eye doctor the same day. Flashes of light and a dark shadow over part of your vision are warning signs too. An ophthalmologist examines the retina through dilated pupils. A retinal tear often responds to laser treatment, but a detachment usually requires surgery.
Maculopathy
Maculopathy refers to any disease of the macula, the center of the retina. Age-related macular degeneration is a major type, followed by diabetic maculopathy. The macula controls sharp central vision, so damage affects reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Once testing confirms the type, your ophthalmologist may use the following:
- Tomography scans to map retinal layers
- Amsler grid checks at home to track changes in central vision
- Injections for wet macular degeneration
- Vitamin supplements for some cases of dry macular degeneration
Find Eye Care Near You
Many eye diseases start without symptoms, and regular exams track changes over time. If you have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, or new vision changes, schedule an exam soon. Contact an ophthalmologist near you to book an appointment today.
