Posted on February 8, 2010.
What are low vision devices low vision eye doctors are physicians who specialize in the fields of ophthalmology and optometry. These two professionals are qualified to treat vision problems, but ophthalmologists and optometrists deal with different aspects of eye health. They are actually two distinct types of low vision eye doctors, and if you suffer from AMD, or age-related macular degeneration, can be handled by each in different ways.
The eye is actually an MD, cardiac surgeons, as, oncologists and other doctors, the ophthalmologist has completed several years of medical school and met with the intern and residency requirements. He / she is qualified to perform surgery on the eye. If age-related macular degeneration in a patient (AMD) is the "wet" variety - which can be treated surgically if diagnosed early - the ophthalmologist is the one who will actually perform the procedure, which now affects the use of lasers.
For those whose vision problems are related to the "dry" type of AMD, there is no known cure or treatment long term. However, there are low vision devices and other products with low vision who can help the patient to maximize remaining vision. The person that measures and adjusts the patient for such mechanical aids is in fact an optometrist.
Physicians with low vision in the field of optometry held an OD or Doctor of Optometry, rather than an MD, and their main concern is the extent of the vision of a patient rather than the actual diagnosis and medical treatment (the second element of speech "optometry" is the Metria Greek, meaning "measure"). It is the duty of the optometrist to determine what low vision devices are appropriate, and recommend low vision therapy.
While the optometrist is not qualified to treat AMD directly, s / he can recommend and fit the patient for a variety of low vision products, including telescopic and microscopic lenses. In addition, he / she may suggest certain vitamins and minerals, whose use may inhibit the progression of AMD.
If you suspect that you have AMD, you will eventually be considered by the two types of physicians with low vision. The first will be an optometrist, which determine the nature of your problem of low vision and refer you to an ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist will then make a more accurate diagnosis and determine the salaries, if any, are appropriate. Then, you return to the optometrist to discuss and be fitted for all products with low vision are available and useful for your condition.
When it comes to effective treatment of EMD, the services of two types of low vision doctors is necessary.