Our eyes are among the hardest working parts of the body, let alone the most important. This is why we are keen to take care of them, and also why there are professionals who study for many years to qualify as eye experts. In this article we are looking at optometrist, one of the most important and specialized of all eye-related medical professionals.
What does an optometrist do, and why should you make an appointment to see one? These – along with tips on what to look for when choosing your optometrist – are questions that we will do our best to answer in the article that follows. Let’s begin by talking about some of the reasons you may want to book an appointment with an optometrist.
Why Would I See an Optometrist?
So, what are the signs that you should perhaps consult and optometrist?
The simple answer is this: if you notice any deterioration in your eyesight or feel that something is not right with your eyes it is best to book an appointment and stay on the safe side. There may be nothing wrong, but there is no harm in having your eyes examined by an expert.
An optometrist is your first point of call if you have pain when moving the eyes, for example, and may refer you to an ophthalmologist for further review. You should also visit an optometrist yearly if you have eyesight problems and need glasses or contact lenses. Your prescription will change over time, and you need to be wearing the right lenses. What should you expect when you visit your optometrist? Let’s look at what their job entails.
What Does an Optometrist Do?
If we look at what an optometrist does, we see that it’s about examining the eyes both inside and out. The optometrist will use a series of specialist tools to look inside the eye. The modern equipment includes a camera that can accurately photograph all areas of the eye, which is a very complex item. From these pictures and other examinations, the optometrist can see defects and deformities, damage and other problems that may occur.
The eye examination requires light to be shone directly into the eyes which some people may find unpleasant. A qualified and experienced optometrist will do all they can to limit the discomfort and help ensure that the patient is comfortable and understands what the procedures are necessary for. To conclude, we want to have a quick look at what you need to consider when looking for your Edmonton optometrist.
What Should I Look for When Choosing an Optometrist?
As we said above, if you have any concerns about your eyes, it is recommended you arrange a consultation with an optometrist. This is the first step in getting any problems diagnosed. You should look for an optometrist locally as you may need to visit several times. Also ask them to show you their qualifications and credentials as you need to know they are experienced and reliable.
You may find the best way to find the right Edmonton optometrist is to ask among your friends, family and work colleagues for recommendations. This will give you a few names to research and visit, so you can find the one you feel most comfortable with. Take your time to find the best optometrist for you and look after your eyes.