Can an Optometrist Diagnose Eye Diseases?
Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining not just good vision but also overall eye health. An optometrist does more than check your eyesight—they play a critical role in detecting and managing eye diseases and identifying underlying health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure that can affect your eyes.
The Role of an Optometrist in Eye Health
- Conduct routine eye exams
- Prescribe glasses and contact lenses
- Treat common issues like dry eyes, infections, and allergies
- Detect early signs of serious conditions, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy
Because many eye diseases develop without noticeable symptoms, optometrists carefully assess your eye health, looking for subtle changes that may indicate conditions such as:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Retinal vein occlusion
- Hypertensive retinopathy
By identifying these conditions early, they can recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or treatments like eye injections or laser therapy to slow disease progression. If specialized care is needed, they refer patients to ophthalmologists or retinal specialists for advanced treatment.
Why Regular Optometrist Visits Matter
Your optometrist is your first line of defense in eye care, helping to catch potential problems before they worsen. Whether you need vision correction or are concerned about eye health, scheduling regular eye exams ensures early detection and better long-term outcomes.
Book Your Eye Exam Today!
Protect your vision with regular checkups. Call (865) 584-0905 to make an appointment at one of our convenient locations.