What Is Ophthalmology?

What Diseases Ophthalmologists Treat

Ophthalmologists can treat any eye condition, no matter how minor or complex. For example, they can treat dry eye or excessive tearing, and they can also help in cases of eye muscle problems or misalignment of the eyes. These specialists routinely provide care for patients with elevated eye pressure (glaucoma), and they diagnose and treat macular degeneration, cataracts, and other vision problems associated with aging. In particular, ophthalmologists tend to be called on to treat eye complications in patients with diabetes, including macular edema and other forms of retinopathy. Ophthalmologists also diagnose and treat eye infections such as conjunctivitis, and they can provide medication and perform procedures to treat styes, cysts, and eye tumors.

Learn about the history of ophthalmology next.