Guy T. McDougal, OD

Optometry is a professional practice primarily concerned with eye and vision care. Optometrists are primary eye care providers trained to diagnose and treat common eye diseases as well as refractive (use of lens) vision correction. Optometrists hold a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete 1-2 year sub-specialty training in pediatric eye care, geriatric eye care, specialty contact lens, ocular disease or neuro-optometry.

Optometrists use a variety of techniques to assess vision, test the ability to focus on and discern objects, and to detect eye diseases or signs of tumors or other brain anomalies. There are numerous eye diseases and disorders with some of the more common being retinal detachment, macular degeneration, glaucoma, floaters, cross-eyed tendency, disorders of refrations (nearsightedness, farsightedness, presbyopia, astigmatism), color blindness, blindness, red eye, eye infections, and dry eyes. Optometrists prescribe corrective lens (glasses, contact lenses) to correct vision problems.