Ophthalmologists specialize in eye care. So, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist in Singapore for diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, surgeries, and prescription of eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Thanks to their comprehensive training, ophthalmologists can also identify other health issues that may manifest in the eyes and refer you to appropriate specialists. Some ophthalmologists further specialize in areas like Glaucoma, Retina, Cornea, Pediatrics, Neurology, or Oculo-Plastic Surgery, through additional training called fellowships.
These specialists can manage complex eye conditions or specific patient groups. But do they also help with eye exams? Read more on this page to find out.
Can I go to an Ophthalmologist for an Eye Exam?
Ophthalmologists specialize in helping manage complex conditions of the eye as well as prescribing contacts and glasses. So, if you need an eye exam, it isn’t strange to want to ask, can I go to an ophthalmologist for an eye exam?
The answer is yes, you can indeed visit an ophthalmologist for an eye exam. Thanks to their extensive training and specialization in eye care, these specialists are equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions.
These include common refractive errors and serious diseases that can lead to vision loss if not detected early. In fact, ophthalmologists actually recommend regular eye exams, even if you have no visual symptoms.
This is important because even though some eye diseases like glaucoma have no early symptoms, they can cause irreversible damage if left untreated. Early detection through regular eye exams can prevent vision loss and maintain eye health.
During an eye exam, an ophthalmologist will not only check your vision. They will also examine the health of your eyes, looking for signs of diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, or other issues that may affect your vision.
Which Signs Indicate that a Person May Need to See an Eye Doctor?
Unlike other common issues like dental health which require frequent visits to the doctor like after every six months for example, eye exams aren’t so frequent unless you’re living with an eye condition that demands frequent monitoring. In fact, if you do not have vision problems or display any vision problems, you may only need regular eye exams every five years if you’re between ages 20 to 39, every two to four years if you’re between ages 40 to 54 and every one to three years if you’re between ages 55 to 64.
These recommendations only serve as guidelines as there are signs and symptoms that may indicate the need to see an eye doctor immediately. These signs include;
I. Issues with focusing, or sudden blurry vision
Difficulty focusing, especially in one eye could be a sign of a vision problem. So, make a point of seeing an eye specialist like an ophthalmologist, for example, if you’re experiencing such changes in vision as they can occur due to presbyopia which is common after 40.
These changes may also indicate the need for a change in prescription. However, sudden blurry vision may indicate a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. Seeing your eye doctor can help determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
II. Sudden changes in vision
Floaters, flashes of light, or obstructions in your vision can indicate a retinal detachment or tear. They can also be suggestive of a hole.
These issues can lead to vision loss if not addressed promptly so seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. A timely assessment with your ophthalmologist, preferably within 24 hours of onset can help prevent further damage and preserve your vision.
III. Eye pain, eye strain, or headaches
One-time eye pain may seem natural though that isn’t always the case. Recurring eye pain, strain, or headaches could be a sign of an underlying eye condition.
These symptoms may indicate an eye infection or a change in vision. That said, it’s important to have your eyes checked to rule out any serious issues and receive appropriate treatment.
IV. Sudden sensitivity to light
If you’re experiencing increased sensitivity to light, chances are you’re dealing with an eye inflammation or irritation. Any of those issues may indicate an underlying eye condition.
So, don’t simply ignore a sudden sensitivity to light. As a basic rule of thumb, consult your eye specialist for an evaluation if you notice sudden sensitivity to light.
They will carefully assess your eyes and vision to let you know for sure what you’re dealing with. In the meantime, protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses when outdoors.
V. Dry, red, itchy eyes
Dry, red, or itchy eyes may be a sign of dry eye syndrome or allergies. These conditions cannot only be uncomfortable but also demand immediate treatment.
Your eye doctor can diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment which can range from eye drops to antihistamines, etc. In the meantime, please avoid rubbing your eyes, as it can increase the risk of infection.
What is a Test done by an Ophthalmologist?
Ophthalmologists perform a wide range of tests to assess eye health depending on whether you have a specific concern or are due for a routine exam. A comprehensive eye exam typically lasts between 45 to 90 minutes and includes several key assessments. Here are some of the tests done by ophthalmologists;
- Visual Acuity Test: Using an eye chart, such as the Snellen chart, the ophthalmologist evaluates your sharpness of vision. You’ll cover one eye and read progressively smaller letters from a distance of 20 feet.
- Visual Field Assessment: This test measures your peripheral vision and detects blind spots or other visual field abnormalities. Tests may include confrontation visual field, automated static perimetry, kinetic visual field, frequency doubling perimetry, electroretinography, and Amsler grid.
- Eye Pressure Testing: Elevated eye pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to conditions like glaucoma. Tonometry, which measures eye pressure, is performed using different methods such as application tonometry, non-contact tonometry, rebound tonometry, and indentation tonometry.
- Eye Movement Test: This test is also known as ocular motility. It is used to assess how well eye muscles function and if eyes align correctly.
- Examination of the Eye: Using a slit-lamp microscope, the ophthalmologist examines the front of your eye, retina, macula, and optic nerve. They may dilate your pupils with eye drops to get a better view.
- Additional Tests: Depending on your condition, the ophthalmologist may recommend further tests such as optical coherence tomography, fundus photos, topography, and fluorescein angiography to assess the retina and blood vessels in the eye.
Closing Thoughts
Ophthalmologists also help with eye exams. So, if you’re recommended an appointment with one for eye exams, see to it that you visit the facility. To learn more or schedule an appointment with a skilled ophthalmologist in Singapore, call or visit the Chelvin SNG Eye Center at;
Chelvin Sng Eye Centre – Glaucoma | Cataract Surgery | Retina Specialist | Ophthalmologist Singapore
38 Irrawaddy Road Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre,
#06-25,
Singapore 329563
https://www.drchelvinsng.com/
