Health. if i have a eye vision problem, do i see a eye specialist or a optometrist where do they differ?

Question

Health. if i have a eye vision problem, do i see a eye specialist or a optometrist where do they differ?

Answer 1

You will need to see an an ophthalmologist in order to get a proper eye exam to prescribe glasses, or whatever type of corrective device you will need.  I'm pretty sure optometrist is used interchangeably.  I think the terms 'eye specialist' is used interchangeably also.

Answer 2

You can go to an either... An ophthalmologist when to 4 year med school and did a residency in ophthalmology where as the optometrist went to 4yr optometry school.  Ophthalmologist are better trained to treat and manage eye disease, but if its a refractive power, you will most likely be seen by a tech.

An optometrist CAN diagnose and treat certain diseases but this is very limited. Most optometrist give good referrals to ophthalmologists if it goes beyond their scope.  Optometrists are also high trained in correction.

Most likely the optometrist can see you that day and may cost less depending on the area costs.

Answer 3

If you have a vision problem (such as you can read close objects anymore because they are blurry) go see an optometrist as they better trained in vision correction for refractive error and lense fitting. If you are loosing vision such as you are developing blindness, it may be best to be seen by a ophthalmologist as they are medically trained in surgical procedure and have the scope to do so if necessary. Either way you could be seen by an optometrist and he/she might have a good referral to an ophthalmologist if you need one. Good luck!