are different from optometrists and opticians in their training and in what they can diagnose and treat. As a medical doctor, an ophthalmologist is licensed to practice medicine and surgery. An ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats all eye diseases, performs eye surgery, and prescribes and fits glasses and contact lenses. Ophthalmologists complete:

• 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.

An optometrist

is a doctor of optometry, licensed to practice optometry. Optometrists determine the need for glasses and contact lens, prescribe optical correction, and screen for abnormalities of the eye. In some states, optometrists can prescribe a limited amount of drugs to help diagnose and treat certain eye conditions. Optometrists generally do not perform surgery. Optometrists attend two to four years of college and four years of optometric college.

An optician

- licensed by a state to make optical aids - fits, adjusts and dispenses glasses, contact lenses and other optical devices on written prescriptions of a licensed ophthalmologist or optometrist. Training for an optician varies from a preceptorship to two years of opticianry school.

How Does an Ophthalmologist 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 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?

You should have your eyes examined by an ophthalmologist if you have:

• 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);

• significant eye injury or eye pain;

• bulging of one or both eyes;

• crossed eyes;

• double vision;

• loss of peripheral vision;

• diabetes mellitus;

• AIDS;

• thyroid disease-related eye problems (Graves' disease);

• family history of eye disease.

You should also see an ophthalmologist if your family doctor, pediatrician or internist refers you to one.
When there are no particular problems, recommended intervals for eye examinations are:
Newborn, pre-school and pre-teen: Eye exams should be given by a pediatrician, family doctor or ophthalmologist at the following intervals:

• newborn to 3 months

• 6 months to one year

• 3 years old

• 5 years old

• later as needed

20 to 29 years of age:

At least once during this period; African Americans, because of greater risk for glaucoma, should be seen every 3 to 5 years.

30 to 39 years of age:

At least twice during this period; African Americans, because of greater risk for glaucoma, should be seen every 2 to 4 years.

Every 2 to 4 years.

Every 1 to 2 years.

What Happens During an Eye Examination?

Your 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.

The examination typically evaluates:

• visual acuity;

• need for eyeglasses or contact lenses (refraction);

• eyelid health and function;

• coordination of eye muscles;

• pupil response to light;

• side (peripheral) vision;

• intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye);

• anterior segment in the eye;

• the interior and back of the eye.