Most people do not realize that if eye problems are treated at their onset, many sight threatening diseases and the loss of eyesight can be prevented. For children, in particular, it is imperative that routine eye exams are conducted earlier on, and followed up periodically. Visual tests to screen the eyes are important in preventing eye trauma. Newborns too are examined thoroughly for any eyesight related disorders or eye infections. The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that by the age of three, a child should have received his or her first holistic eye examination, especially if the family has a history of vision problems.
A surgical doctor specializing in the area of the eye and visual pathways, providing the diagnosis, examination and treatment for a variety of eye problems is known as an ophthalmologist. Ophthalmologists are well versed in a wide array of eye problems, and are trained to fully and accurately diagnose and treat them. Many of them further go on to specialize in one particular field of ophthalmology, either focusing their research and expertise on an isolated disease or part of the eye. Typical examples include glaucoma specialist and a pediatric ophthalmologist.
Ophthalmologists and ophthalmology has picked up in the recent years due to the surge in eye infections and diseases. The human dependence on industrialization has brought great comforts to their lives, but has also brought some major defects. According to an estimate, common household products are known to cause more than 125,000 eye injuries every year. Many do not realize that something as simple as hand washing can bring those numbers down considerably. Television, video games, the computer and the internet, and so on have only increased the chances of weakening eyes. Even the sports fields are not immune to the dangers of permanent eye damage. Every year, emergency rooms in hospitals are estimated to treat more than 40,000 eye injuries related to sport.
Ophthalmologists will not only address and attempt to correct any eye diseases and injuries, but educated the public and give insight to tips on better eye health. Many of the sources of eye problems are controllable. One of the most harmful source of problem is eye makeup, which causes allergies, eye irritation, deposits, infection and dryness. Ophthalmologists advise their patients on how they can ensure the long life of their eyes. They promote hand washing, especially before and after meals, before and after contact with lenses, cosmetics, chemicals and so on.
Ophthalmologists further educate patients on how eye diseases and problems are not isolated. Eye strain, especially that related with computer use and the prolonged viewing of the computer screen lead to itchy, watery and red eyes; aching and tired eyelids; problem with concentrating and focusing; muscle spasms in one or both lids; backache and headache. They advise on giving the eyes adequate rest, wearing glasses if required, putting a screen on the laptop and taking frequent breaks from computer/electronic usage.
An ophthalmologist treats the various types of eye infections to affect the normal eye. One of the most common type around the world is the infectious conjunctivitis, or pinkeye. It can be caused by bacteria, virus or even fungus. Chlamydia and gonorrhea, sexually transmitted diseases are also known to cause visual problems especially in adults. Herpes is another cause of eye infections, which can severely destroy the tissue of the retina and damage eye sight. Shingles, Lyme disease, leprosy, tuberculosis, Bcterial keratitis, crab lice, mumps, influenze, measles, sarcoidosis, mycosis, and others are also known to affect the eyes. Ophthalmologists focus on these diseases and many more and try to find ways to addressing and correcting them.
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