Eye Specialist Ophthalmologist Singapore: Which Tests do they administer? When it comes to maintaining good vision and overall eye health,...
Eye Specialist Ophthalmologist Singapore: Which Tests do they administer?
When it comes to maintaining good vision and overall eye health, you can hardly go wrong with seeing the right eye specialist. Ophthalmologists are eye doctors with expert training to handle everything from routine eye exams to complex surgical procedures. See more: https://www.drchelvinsng.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-ophthalmologists-in-singapore/
In Singapore, these specialists play a key role in helping people preserve their eyesight. But what exactly does an eye specialist ophthalmologist do?
And which tests might you undergo when visiting an eye specialist ophthalmologist in Singapore? Stay on this page for answers to these questions and more.
What is the Full Meaning of Ophthalmologist?
Simply put, an ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye and vision disorders. Unlike optometrists or opticians, ophthalmologists undergo extensive medical training.
After earning a medical degree, they complete several years of specialized training in ophthalmology. This makes them highly skilled in managing a wide range of eye conditions, from cataracts to glaucoma, and performing intricate surgeries like corneal transplants or laser treatments.
The expertise of your eye specialist ophthalmologist in Singapore extends beyond vision correction. They are trained to detect systemic diseases like diabetes or hypertension, through signs that appear in the eyes.
In Singapore, ophthalmologists are key to managing eye-related issues due to their advanced training and access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatments. Whether you need routine care or advanced medical interventions, an ophthalmologist is the expert you will want to consult.
What Organ Would Be Examined by an Ophthalmologist?
The primary organ examined by an ophthalmologist is the eye. The eye is a complex structure responsible for vision, making it one of the most important sensory organs in the human body.
An ophthalmologist evaluates all parts of the eye, from the external surface to the intricate internal structures. This includes:
- Cornea which is the clear, dome-shaped surface that focuses light into the eye.
- Lens which is the part that adjusts focus for near and distant objects.
- Retina which is a thin layer at the back of the eye that detects light and sends signals to the brain.
- Optic nerve which is the nerve that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain.
- Iris and pupil which are the colored part of the eye and the opening that controls how much light enters.
Beyond these, your eye specialist ophthalmologist in Singapore may also examine surrounding structures, like the eyelids, tear ducts, and eye muscles, to ensure holistic care.
Why Would You Be Referred to an Ophthalmologist?
A general eye doctor can help with most issues that affect vision. However, there are specific instances when seeing an ophthalmologist in Singapore would be the best option for you. You may be referred to an ophthalmologist if;
- You're Dealing with Chronic Eye Conditions: If you have ongoing issues like cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration, an ophthalmologist can provide the specialized care required. These conditions often need advanced diagnostics and treatments beyond the scope of an optometrist.
- You have Injury or Trauma: An eye injury—whether from a sharp object, chemical exposure, or impact—requires immediate attention. Ophthalmologists are trained to manage such emergencies to minimize damage. This also applies to if you require procedures like cataract surgery, LASIK, or eyelid surgery.
- You Experience Unexplained Vision Changes: Sudden or gradual vision changes, such as blurred vision, double vision, or dark spots, can be signs of serious underlying issues. Conditions like retinal detachment or optic nerve disorders require urgent assessment by an ophthalmologist. The same goes for persistent pain, redness, or sensitivity to light which can indicate infections, inflammations, or other eye diseases that need a specialist’s evaluation.
- You have Systemic Health Issues: Systemic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders often manifest in the eyes. Again, here is where the expertise of an eye specialist ophthalmologist comes in. They can help in accurately identifying these signs and collaborating with other medical professionals for comprehensive care.
What Are the Tests Done by an Ophthalmologist?
When referred to a knowledgeable eye specialist ophthalmologist in Singapore, you can expect them to recommend specific tests depending on your reason for the visit. Ophthalmologists use a range of tests to assess eye health and vision. Here's a quick roundup of the most common tests done by ophthalmologists:
- Visual Acuity Test: This is the classic “eye chart” test, where you read letters of decreasing size. It measures how well you see at various distances. Results are expressed as a fraction, such as 20/20, indicating normal vision.
- Refraction Test: This test determines whether you need corrective lenses. The ophthalmologist places different lenses in front of your eyes and asks which provides clearer vision.
- Eye Muscle Test: Here, you will be asked to follow a moving object. From this, the doctor will be able to evaluate how well your eye muscles work together. This test detects issues like strabismus (misaligned eyes).
- Pupil Response Test: For this one, a penlight is used to observe how your pupils respond to light. Abnormal reactions can signal neurological or eye health problems.
- Color Vision Test: This checks your ability to distinguish colors. You’ll identify numbers or patterns within colored dot arrays. It’s commonly used to diagnose color blindness.
- Slit Lamp Exam: A slit lamp provides a magnified view of your eye’s front structures. This includes the cornea, iris, and lens. It can help detect conditions like cataracts, corneal damage, or infections.
- Dilated Eye Exam: For this exam, eye drops are used to widen your pupils and allow for a detailed examination of the retina and optic nerve. This test is crucial for detecting diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma.
- Tonometry: This measures the pressure inside your eye, which is a key indicator of glaucoma. The test involves a gentle puff of air or a special device.
- Amsler Grid Test: For this test, you’ll look at a grid with a central dot. Distortions in the grid lines can indicate macular degeneration or other retinal issues.
- Gonioscopy: This test examines the drainage angle of your eye to determine whether it’s functioning properly. It’s used to diagnose and manage glaucoma.
Closing Thoughts
From diagnosing common conditions to performing life-changing surgeries, the expertise of ophthalmologists is unmatched. If you’re experiencing vision changes, eye discomfort, or have systemic conditions that may affect your eyes, don’t hesitate to seek their care.
Book an appointment with an eye specialist in Singapore today to ensure your eyes stay healthy for years to come! See details below;
Chelvin Sng Eye Centre - Glaucoma | Cataract Surgery | Retina Specialist | Ophthalmologist Singapore
38 IRRAWADDY ROAD MT ELIZABETH NOVENA SPECIALIST CENTRE,
#06-25, Singapore 329563
+65 6334 2282
