4 Eye Conditions An Ophthalmologist Diagnoses And Treats

An optometrist is a doctor that provides routine vision care. Those who need more specialized vision care need to see an ophthalmologist. This type of eye specialist provides both medical and cosmetic eye surgery. Ophthalmology services also include the diagnosis and treatment of various eye conditions. Here are four eye conditions and ophthalmologist diagnoses and treatments.

1. Glaucoma

The eye's optic nerve is responsible for transmitting impulses to the brain from the retina, which is located at the back of the eye. When the optic nerve becomes damaged, it results in a condition called glaucoma. This eye condition can cause someone to slowly lose their vision.

One way an ophthalmologist diagnoses glaucoma is by measuring the intraocular pressure of the eye, which is done with the air puff test. Glaucoma cannot be cured, but treatment options, such as eye drops, oral medications, and surgery can help to decrease pressure in the eye and slow vision loss.

2. Dry Eyes

When tears aren't able to provide enough moisture, it results in a condition called dry eyes. Along with feeling dry, the eyes can become inflamed and sensitive to light. An ophthalmologist diagnoses dry eyes by doing a comprehensive eye exam. Various tests can also be done to measure the volume of tears as well as the quality of tears. Treatment for dry eyes usually involves prescription eye drops. 

3. Keratoconus

The cornea is the eye's outermost lens and is sometimes referred to as the eye's windshield. Most people have a cornea that is dome-shaped. When the cornea thins and develops a bulge, it results in an eye condition called keratoconus. To diagnose this condition, an ophthalmologist performs an eye examination.

Other tests might include eye refraction, keratometry, and computerized corneal mapping. The most common treatment options for keratoconus include prescription eyeglasses or special types of contact lenses.

4. Eye Injuries

The eye is susceptible to different kinds of injuries. Some of the most common kinds of eye injuries include:

• Blunt trauma
• Punctures
• Burns
• Long-term sun exposure

Another type of eye injury occurs when a foreign object gets lodged into the eye. All of these types of injuries can cause extensive damage to the eye. Some eye injuries can also cause vision loss.

When an eye injury occurs, an ophthalmologist needs to assess the best course of treatment for the injury. This treatment depends upon the type of injury. Some eye injury treatment options include wearing a patch, applying an ice pack, and surgical repair.