Ophthamology
Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, physiology, treatment and surgery of the visual pathways of the eye, including surrounding areas and the visual aspects of the brain. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in total eye care including the diagnosis, management, and treatment of eye conditions and injuries. Ophthalmologists are trained to provide a wide variety of eye care, which can range from prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses to performing eye surgery whenever necessary.
When to See an Ophthalmologist
When eyes are concerned, ophthalmologists are the most trained eye professionals that can provide comprehensive care. A visit to an ophthalmologist is necessary if you have risk factors for eye disease or are experiencing any of the symptoms below:
- Decreased vision (even if temporary)
- Distorted vision
- Vision floaters, characterized by specks or strings or flashes of light
- A vision veil that blocks normal eyesight
- Eye trauma
- Eye injury or pain
- Red eye
- Bulging of the eyes
- Misaligned eyes
- Double vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Diabetes mellitus (type I or II)
- Eye problems related to thyroid disease (Graves’ Disease)
- Excess tearing of the outer covering of the eye
- Eyelid abnormalities
Adults aged 40 and above are recommended to see an ophthalmologist for routine eye disease screening, even if no symptoms are observed.
Ophthamology Clinics
For appointment scheduling with Dr. David Barnes Jr. at Hardtner Medical Center, please contact Louisiana Eye and Laser at (318) 487-2020.
