Optometrists are health specialists who generally work in a community setting and who are trained to examine eyes, test sight, give advice on visual problems, and prescribe and dispense spectacles or contact lenses.
The eye examination is a vital health check and should be part of everyone's normal health regime. What does an eye examination involve and how much will it cost? What if my optometrist refers me to my doctor? Can optometrists treat eye disease? And how do I make a complaint? Follow the links for answers to these questions, and for 10 important reasons for having an eye examination.
What are the symptoms of cataract? What treatments are available for age-related macular degeneration? How do optometrists check for glaucoma? What eye problems are associated with diabetes? Who is at risk from detached retina? And what causes squint? We provide a guide to the some of the most common eye diseases and other conditions that affect the eyes.
College guidance on topical issues in optometry includes advice on UV and the eyes, night vision and driving, mail order/internet supply of contact lenses, plano cosmetic contact lenses and Acanthamoeba keratitis and contact lenses, and vCJD and contact lenses.
Most people encounter problems with their eyesight at some stage in their lives. This section explains the most common eyesight problems short sight (myopia), long sight (hypermetropia), astigmatism and presbyopia - and the symptoms they cause.
To understand more about how your eyes work, here is a brief description of the main structures of the eye such as the lens, cornea and retina - and how they function.
Modern spectacle lens technology means that there are many different designs and materials to choose from. Here we provide a brief guide to the types of lenses and coatings available, and explain what your spectacle prescription means.
More than 3 million people in the UK enjoy the many benefits that contact lenses have to offer. This section provides information on different types of contact lenses and important advice on looking after your lenses.
Various surgical techniques can be used to correct eyesight and reduce the need for glasses. Follow this link for a brief description of the most common types of surgery and where to go for further information.