Abnormal, harmful, or undesirable effect on an organism that causes anatomical or functional damage, irreversible physical changes, or increases the susceptibility to other biological, chemical, or environmental stresses.
Optometrists can prescribe glasses, contact lenses, eye exercises, vision aids and therapy, and (in some states) oral and topical medications to treat certain eye diseases. Ophthalmologists are doctors of the eye. They have graduated from medical school and are licensed to practice medicine, so their credentials are either doctor of medicine (MD) or doctor of osteopathy (DO).
If you wear glasses or contacts, youâve probable looked at your prescription at least once and wondered what it all means. The terminology is meant for those in the industry. While optometrists and ophthalmologists may understand the language on a prescription for glasses or contacts, it often helps to know what the words mean for your own understanding.