The Major Roles Of An Optometrist And Tips From Them To Keep Your Eyes Healthy

An optometrist is a primary healthcare specialist who is trained to examine the eyes and to detect any natural defects in vision, any sign of injury, abnormality, or ocular diseases. There are several roles of an optometrist which are discussed here.

What Do The Optometrists Do?

Optometrists can help us to understand the crucial link between the condition of our eyes and our overall health. On any given day, an optometrist may diagnose and treat eye disorders and vision problems, prescribe and dispense glasses and contact lenses, and provide expert advice on eye care. They can also refer you to ophthalmologists for surgery, or talk with GPs to set up a management strategy to care for a patient’s overall health concerns.

Why Is It Necessary To Get Your Eyes Tested?

In Australia, 90% of vision loss is preventable or treatable, so making time for regular eye tests is essential to detect and treat ocular conditions early.

Optometrist

Interestingly, the early warning signs of several general health issues can often be displayed as changes in vision or the internal appearance of the eye. Using the latest technologies, an eye test can very well help in identifying the first signs of eye disease, as well as health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

This insight allows optometrists to support the overall health of their patients and may assist in the early detection of diseases. They can also save your life from serious health complications, like stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease in the future.

But, you must know that an optometrist cannot prescribe medicine. He or she can conduct a few eye tests to prescribe glasses or contact lenses. They cannot perform any surgery. If needed then they can refer you to some ophthalmologists.

How Do I Look After My Eyes?

Check Out Our Top 5 Tips For Healthy And Happy Eyes

Optometrists recommend having your eyes thoroughly tested every two years, or they can suggest you visit more frequently if you have an existing eye or medical condition that might stand a chance of affecting your eyes. Consult your GP or optometrist about the right eye test schedule for you. Making a regular eye test part of your personal health check routine is essential to protect your sight and look after your general health and well-being from top to toe.

1. Eat, Move, And Feel Better Healthy food choices and making time each day for exercise can support you to achieve and maintain a healthy weight & ensure your body is getting the right nutrients it needs. Plus, a balanced diet full of green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, nuts, and fish is all good for your eyes.

2. Kick The Habit Smoking contributes to the early development of age-related macular degeneration, which is the most common cause of blindness in the Western world. Quitting smoking or being a non-smoker can help ensure that healthy eyes and good vision are maintained for as long as possible.

3. Protect Your Eyes Just like layering on sunscreen and protective clothing to shield your skin from the sun, do not forget to protect your eyes from harmful UV by always wearing sunglasses and a hat when you’re outside. Combining sunglasses and a sun-safe hat can reduce UV radiation from reaching your eyes by up to 98%. Keep a pair of safety eyewear or protective goggles handy at home to use when working with gardening equipment or chemicals around the house or backyard too.

Adhering to these useful tips from the best and most experienced optometrists will help you protect your eyes in the long run and you will be able to preserve your invaluable vision lifelong.