2006-07-06 10:28:41 · 6 answers · asked by fancypants 2 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Other - Diseases
Ive had sudden vision changes in one eye accompanied by pain...with no history of eye problems. Which should I go to?
2006-07-06 10:35:58 · update #1
Actually, it could be many different things, not just a detached retina. But your symptoms could be very serious so you need to make an appointment ASAP! I like to compare optometrists to a primary care physician. You go to your PCP for most all problems, then if you need referred to a specialist they will make you an appointment with another doctor. Problems that you described are perfect for calling an optometrist. They usually work you right into their schedule and in many cases can treat the problem without having to refer you out. But say if it's a problem with your retina, they can refer you to a retinal specialist. Or if it's a serious problem with your cornea, a corneal specialist.
2006-07-09 05:38:11 · answer #1 · answered by eyegirl 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diseases of the eye and their treatment.
An optometrist is a health professional (but not a medical doctor) concerned with diagnosing and treating a variety of eye problems--excluding surgery.
2006-07-06 17:38:36 · answer #2 · answered by The Beav 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The only difference lies within the United States, where an optometrist undertakes four years of career-specific college to recieve a Doctorate of Optometry as well as a certificate from a medical board. Opthalmologists do this and then continue their education with a three to four year surgical residency.
In simpler terms, an opthalmologist has gone through training in order to perform surgery on the eye as well as provide corrective lenses and eye exams; whereas an optometrist is limited to providing the eye exams and lenses.
An optometrist will let you know what's going on with your eyes and whether surgery is required. If surgery is required, I'm certain that your optometrist will know whom to refer you to.
2006-07-06 17:41:58 · answer #3 · answered by Jessica 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
An ophthalmologist deals with diseases with the eye and how to cure them
An optometrist deals with vision problems and corrections
2006-07-06 17:32:30 · answer #4 · answered by DaCowMan 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ophthalmologist-sounds like a detached retina.
2006-07-06 20:17:31 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
an ophthalmologist has a medical degree.
2006-07-06 17:33:10 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋