Optometry is a branch of health care which deals with examination of eyes and identification of any kind of defects and abnormalities in the same. Optometrists do not perform any kind of eye surgeries but prescribe medications to treat different types of eye diseases.Basically, the course of treatment offered by an optometrist usually comprises of vision correction glasses, contact lenses and vision therapy exercises.

Why should you consult an Optometrist?

An Optometrist needs to be consulted if you have been experiencing abnormal headaches over a period of time. Also, if you sense pain or fatigue in your eye during normal eye movements, it is better to schedule a visit to an optometrist. People with blurry vision or abnormal vision issues should go to an optometrist as this can be a symptom of a serious problem like retinal detachment. Squinting is also a sign of deteriorating eyesight for which examination by an optometrist is a must.

What are the types of specialisation 

There are different specialization areas of optometrists.Some optometrists specialize inlow vision testing. They prescribe treatment as well as diagnosis of the problem and prescribe low vision optical devices. Then there are eye specialists known as orthoptist who treat children with eye disorders. Another specialization area of optometry deals with vision issues of the old e. Such optometrists specialize in geriatrics. Some  optometrists specialize in sports vision. Contact lenses and vision therapy is also a specialization area of optometrists.

How much do Optometrists in Mumbai charge?

The consultation fees of an optometristusually begins at Rs 500/-. Charges vary with treatment required. Vision therapy charges are Rs 1000/- onwards and contact lens cost Rs 700/- onwards, varying with type and quality.

Top 5 Treatments available

Optometrists offer different kind of treatments as per patient requirement.

Vision Therapy– Vision therapy is performed by an optometrist with the help of devices such as prisms, therapeutic lens, filters, balance boards etc.

Glaucoma Treatment- Although glaucoma cannot be cured, different medicines help minimize the damage.

Contact Lens- Contact Lenses are prescribed by optometrists as per patient requirement.

Treatment for Squint- Optometrists offer treatment for binocular vision problemsand squinting. Treatment encompasses eye drops, eye patches and different kind of eye exercises

Paediatric Eye Treatment- Children with vision issues are prescribed glasses by an optometrist. Spectacles need to be worn at all times so that the problem does not worsen.