Ophthalmologists

What is an ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor specialized in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye diseases. After six years of medical school and three years of specific residency, this professional is qualified to provide comprehensive eye care. Many pursue subspecializations in areas such as retina, cornea, glaucoma, pediatric ophthalmology, or neuro-ophthalmology.

Unlike an optometrist (who examines vision and prescribes optical corrections) and an optician (who makes and adjusts lenses), only the ophthalmologist has complete medical training, being able to diagnose systemic diseases with ocular manifestations, prescribe medications, and perform surgical procedures on the eyes.

When should I consult with an ophthalmologist

Children should have their first consultation around the age of three, except in cases with risk factors that require earlier evaluation. Healthy adults can have check-ups every two years until age 40, switching to annual consultations after that age, when natural changes such as presbyopia begin to appear.

Specific groups need more frequent monitoring: diabetics, those with hypertension, people with a family history of eye diseases, users of medications with potential effects on the eyes, and patients over 60 years old, due to the increased risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

Situations that require immediate consultation include intense eye pain, sudden loss of vision, sudden double vision, new spots or flashes of light, red eye with pain or photophobia, and any eye trauma. These are considered ophthalmological emergencies that can permanently compromise vision if not treated quickly.

How a complete ophthalmological examination works

The consultation begins with a detailed medical history about ocular history, medical background, and current complaints. Visual acuity is assessed, followed by a refraction exam for precise identification of refractive errors. In biomicroscopy, performed with a slit lamp, the doctor examines the anterior structures of the eye in detail.

Tonometry measures intraocular pressure, essential for the early diagnosis of glaucoma. To evaluate the retina and optic nerve, fundoscopy is performed after pupil dilation, a fundamental procedure for detecting retinal changes and ocular manifestations of systemic diseases.

Complementary exams may be necessary: optical coherence tomography (OCT) creates three-dimensional images of the retina and optic nerve; the visual field test evaluates peripheral vision; and corneal topography maps the surface of the cornea in detail.

Main eye conditions and their treatments

Refractive errors

Myopia (difficulty seeing at a distance), hyperopia (difficulty seeing up close), astigmatism (distorted vision due to corneal irregularity), and presbyopia (progressive difficulty reading after age 40) can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgeries such as LASIK and PRK. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as age, lifestyle, associated eye conditions, and personal preferences.

Cataract

Consists of the progressive opacification of the lens, causing blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and changes in color perception. Although predominantly related to aging, it can be accelerated by factors such as UV radiation, smoking, diabetes, and prolonged use of corticosteroids. The definitive treatment is surgical, performed using the phacoemulsification technique, which removes the opacified lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens. Modern lenses can correct astigmatism and offer multifocality, providing independence from glasses after surgery.

Glaucoma

Characterized by progressive damage to the optic nerve, usually associated with elevated intraocular pressure, glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness if untreated. Its silent nature, with symptoms noticeable only in advanced stages, makes early diagnosis crucial. Treatment aims to reduce intraocular pressure through eye drops, laser procedures, or surgeries such as trabeculectomy and drainage device implantation. It is essential to understand that treatment does not recover lost vision but prevents additional damage.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Affects the macula, the central region of the retina responsible for detailed vision. It exists in two forms: dry (atrophic), more common and slow-progressing, and wet (exudative), characterized by abnormal growth of blood vessels under the retina. For dry AMD, supplementation with specific antioxidants can slow progression. The wet form is primarily treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, which block the growth of abnormal vessels and reduce fluid leakage, potentially stabilizing or improving vision when started early.

Diabetic retinopathy

A complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels of the retina, progressing from non-proliferative forms (microaneurysms and small hemorrhages) to proliferative stages (growth of abnormal vessels that can cause severe hemorrhages and retinal detachment). Strict control of blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipids is fundamental in prevention. Treatment includes laser photocoagulation, intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF or corticosteroids, and in severe cases, vitrectomy to remove hemorrhages and repair the retina.

Keratoconus

A degenerative condition characterized by progressive thinning and protrusion of the cornea, which acquires a conical shape. It usually begins in adolescence, causing irregular astigmatism and distorted vision. In the early stages, glasses or rigid contact lenses provide good visual correction. Corneal collagen crosslinking stabilizes the progression of the disease, strengthening the bonds between collagen fibers. In advanced cases, corneal transplantation may be necessary.

Eye health and examination in the digital era

Prolonged use of digital devices causes Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), with symptoms such as eye fatigue, dry eyes, and temporary blurred vision. Although it does not cause permanent damage, it can aggravate pre-existing conditions. The 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), proper monitor positioning, ocular lubricants, and, when necessary, glasses with blue light filters help minimize discomfort.

Pediatric ophthalmology

Pediatric eye evaluation is crucial for detecting conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus, and refractive errors that, if not corrected early, can compromise visual development. Amblyopia affects 2-3% of children and has much more effective treatment if started before age 7. Signs indicating the need for evaluation include ocular misalignment, frequent head tilting, excessive approaching to see objects, closing one eye in the sun, and unexpected school difficulties. Premature children, those with low birth weight, or a family history of eye diseases require special vigilance.

Technological advances in ophthalmology

Ophthalmology constantly evolves with innovative technologies. Personalized refractive surgeries use advanced topographic mapping and wavefront technology for superior visual results. In cataract treatment, sophisticated intraocular lenses offer not only distance vision correction but also independence from glasses for intermediate and near vision. In diagnostics, multimodal imaging exams provide complementary information about eye structures and functions. Artificial intelligence is being integrated for retinal image analysis, aiding in the early diagnosis of various pathologies.

Prevention and maintenance of eye health

A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, lutein, and omega-3 contributes significantly to eye health. Protection against ultraviolet radiation is essential at any age, with regular use of sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Proper control of diseases such as diabetes and hypertension prevents serious eye complications. Smoking cessation reduces the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and optic neuropathy. For contact lens users, rigorous hygiene prevents complications such as corneal ulcers and infections. In environments with risk of eye injury, the use of adequate protection is essential to avoid serious trauma.

Choosing the ideal ophthalmologist with AvaliaMed

When choosing an ophthalmologist, verify that the professional is registered with the Regional Medical Council and has a specialist title. For specific conditions, consider seeking a subspecialist in the corresponding area. Evaluate the office infrastructure, with updated equipment for diagnosis and treatment. A good ophthalmologist should clearly explain diagnoses, discuss treatment options, and answer questions in accessible language. Recommendations from other patients, ease of access for follow-up consultations and emergencies are also important factors to consider in the choice.

AvaliaMed stands out as an excellent choice of professionals for the treatment of eye conditions, as it offers options of highly qualified ophthalmologists, with access to cutting-edge technologies and personalized care. We understand the importance of eye health and always seek to offer the best possible professional, whether in preventive treatments or in solving more complex problems.

Choosing a professional through AvaliaMed means trusting in quality care, with professionals who prioritize the health and well-being of patients, ensuring accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.