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).
Depending on your individual situation, your healthcare professional may prescribe medications to: 1  Lower your blood pressure. 2  Reduce your cholesterol level. 3  Prevent your blood from clotting and keep your arteries clear. 4  Help control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. 5  Some Alzheimer's medications may help.