Ophthalmologists are also medical doctors. They differ from other doctors because of their specialization in eye care.
They cannot only diagnose. They can also treat eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses. See more: https://www.drchelvinsng.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-ophthalmologists-in-singapore/.
Now, during an ophthalmologist appointment, you can expect a comprehensive eye exam. This exam may include tests to assess your vision, eye muscle function, peripheral vision, and eye pressure.
The ophthalmologist will also examine the health of your eyes. During this examination, they will essentially be looking for signs of diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
The ophthalmologist will then discuss your eye health and recommend any necessary corrective measures or treatments based on the findings. They may also provide advice on how to maintain good eye health and prevent future problems.
In today’s guide, we answer the question; what does an ophthalmologist diagnose? We will also touch on the questions you may be asked at an appointment with your ophthalmologist in Singapore. Keep reading!
What does an Ophthalmologist Diagnose?
Your primary care physician (PCP) or an eye care physician should be able to help with most issues of the eye you may be dealing with. This means that they may only refer you to an ophthalmologist in Singapore for specialized eye care if you have complex eye conditions. Here’s a quick summary of some of the examples of conditions that an ophthalmologist can diagnose;
- Refractive Errors
Ophthalmologists can diagnose common refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia. These conditions occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina.
This effect may lead to blurred vision common with these conditions. They can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include;
- A visual acuity test
- Refraction test, and
- An examination of the eye’s structures.
- Cataracts
These are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause vision problems. Cataracts commonly develop with age.
However, you may also get them from injury, certain medications, or medical conditions like diabetes. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination which may include a visual acuity test and a slit-lamp examination to examine the lens for signs of clouding.
- Glaucoma
This is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. Often, this damage is due to elevated pressure within the eye. Glaucoma is serious and can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
Diagnosis involves measuring the intraocular pressure (tonometry). The ophthalmologist may also examine the optic nerve for damage (ophthalmoscopy), and also assess the visual field (perimetry) to detect any loss of peripheral vision.
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Now, AMD is a progressive condition that affects the macula. The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision.
AMD can also lead to vision loss but in the center of the visual field. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination. An assessment for suspected AMD may include a dilated eye exam to examine the retina and the macula for signs of damage or abnormalities.
- Diabetic Retinopathy
Just as the name suggests, diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. It is yet another serious condition that can lead to vision loss if not detected and managed early.
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination which may also include a dilated eye exam to examine the retina for signs of damage or abnormal blood vessel growth. Regular assessments are warranted to catch the condition before significant damage is done.
- Strabismus
You may also be referred to an ophthalmologist in Singapore for strabismus diagnosis. This is a condition in which the eyes are misaligned and do not point in the same direction.
Strabismus can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) if not treated early in childhood. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination, including an assessment of eye alignment and coordination.
- Ocular Surface Diseases
Ophthalmologists also diagnose ocular surface diseases which include dry eye syndrome, blepharitis, and conjunctivitis (pink eye). These conditions can cause discomfort, redness, and blurry vision.
To diagnose these conditions, your ophthalmologist will want to have you undergo a comprehensive eye exam which may include an assessment of tea production and quality. They may also examine your eyelids and the surface of the eye.
What Questions Are Asked at an Eye Test?
The reasons for asking questions during an eye test include getting to the root cause of the condition you’re dealing with and getting an understanding of how the condition itself is impacting you. So, you will want to ensure that your responses are honest and accurate.
One of the first questions you can expect to be asked at an eye test are questions about your general health. In this regard, you may be asked about any existing medical conditions, medications you are taking, and your family’s eye health history.
This information helps them understand any potential genetic or health-related factors that could affect your eyes. Also, you may be asked about your lifestyle and daily activities.
This question is usually asked to determine your visual needs. For example, they might ask about your occupation, hobbies, and how much time you spend using digital devices. This helps your ophthalmologist and their medical team to tailor their advice and recommendations to your specific lifestyle.
Importantly, you may also be asked about any specific vision problems you are experiencing. For example, you may be asked if you’re experiencing blurred vision, double vision, or eye strain. You will want to describe your symptoms in detail to help the ophthalmologist identify potential eye conditions or vision issues that need to be addressed.
Another key question you may be asked at an ophthalmologist appointment is about your previous eye care. This may include any past eye surgeries, injuries, or treatments you have received.
This information helps them understand your eye health history. It will also help in the monitoring of any changes over time.
Closing Thoughts
Ophthalmologists play a key role in diagnosing and managing a wide range of eye conditions. From common refractive errors to more serious diseases that can lead to vision loss if not detected and treated early, there are several conditions that may warrant a visit to a qualified ophthalmologist in Singapore. For the best treatment outcomes, be sure to visit your ophthalmologist as soon as possible if recommended.
Were you recommended a visit to an ophthalmologist in Singapore but you are still unsure where to find one or what to do? Get in touch with our team now to schedule an appointment. Call or visit us at;
Chelvin Sng Eye Centre – Glaucoma | Cataract Surgery | Retina Specialist | Ophthalmologist Singapore
38 Irrawaddy Road Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre,
#06-25,
Singapore 329563
+65 6334 2282
