An ophthalmologist, an Eye M.D., is a medical doctor with additional specialized training in all aspects of eye care -- medical, surgical and optical.

How is an opthalmologist (Eye M.D.) trained?

• 4 years of college
• 4 years of medical school
• 1 year of internship
• 3 years, at least, of residency (hospital-based training) in the diagnosis and medical and surgical treatment of eye disorders

How does an opthalmologist become certified?

After four years of college and eight additional years of medical education and training, an ophthalmologist must pass a rigorous two-part examination which tests not only knowledge but one's ability to provide expert care to patients. This exam is given by the American Board of Ophthalmology.

What is a subspecialist?

While all ophthalmologists specialize in eye problems and can treat all conditions, some decide to specialize in a specific area of medical or surgical eye care. This person is called a subspecialist. He or she usually completes a fellowship, which is one or two more years of training in the chosen area. Some subspecialists focus on the treatment of a disease, such as glaucoma. Others subspecialize in a particular part of the eye such as the retina. Pediatric ophthalmologists subspecialize in treating eye disease in children.

When should I see an ophthalmologist?

• Decreased vision, even if temporary
• New floaters (black "strings" or specks in the vision)
• Flashes of light
• Curtain or veil blocking vision
• Haloes (colored circles around lights)
• Eye pain
• Redness of the eye or skin around the eye
• Eye discharge or tearing
• Bulging of one or both eyes
• Crossed eyes
• Double vision
• Diabetes
• Family history of eye disease

You should also see an ophthalmologist if your family doctor, pediatrician or internist refers you to one.

What happens during an eye examination?

The ophthalmologist and his or her assistants ask about your current symptoms and review your medical history. Eye drops to dilate your eyes may or may not be used during the exam.

• Visual acuity
• Need for eyeglasses or contact lenses (refraction)
• Coordination of eye muscles
• Pupil response to light
• Side (peripheral vision)
• Glaucoma risk
• Eyelid health and funtion
• The interior and back of the eye

What treatments are available for my eyes?

Your ophthalmologist will discuss the results of your eye examination with you. If your eyes are healthy, you may only need eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct your vision.

Some eye diseases are treated with medication, such as eyedrops or pills. Other diseases may require laser surgery or other surgical procedures.

Your ophthalmologist can provide you with the treatment you need, or in some cases, may refer you to a subspecialist.

Some eye conditions cannot be cured. Nevertheless, your ophthalmologist can offer counseling and support while monitoring your condition.

Loss of sight may be prevented!

Many eye diseases do not cause symptoms for months or years. Therefore, regular visits to your ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) should be as important as regular visits to your family physician.

In many cases, early treatment of glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, crossed eyes and some forms of macular degeneration can prevent loss of sight and even blindness.

Your ophthalmologist's goal is to protect your sight through early diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions.