Diagnosing cataracts

As part of their practice, optometrists are trained to identify and diagnose cataracts in patients. A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that can cause vision problems.

Optometrists use various techniques to diagnose cataracts, including:

Visual acuity test: This test involves reading letters from an eye chart to determine the clarity of vision. If a patient has a cataract, their vision may be blurry or hazy, making it difficult to read the chart.

Slit-lamp exam: This exam uses a specialized microscope to examine the eyes in detail. Optometrists can use this tool to identify cataracts and determine their severity.

Dilated eye exam: During a dilated eye exam, the optometrist will use eye drops to dilate the pupils, allowing them to see the lens and other parts of the eye more clearly. This can help them identify cataracts and determine their location and size.

If an optometrist suspects that a patient has a cataract, they may refer them to an ophthalmologist, an eye doctor who specializes in surgery, for further evaluation and treatment.