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How Eye Specialists Help Patients in Different Ways?

eye specialist

An eye specialist or ophthalmologist performs a wide variety of tasks related to eye health. Some of them include: 

  •  Treating and diagnosing various eye conditions
  •  Monitoring vision changes
  • Performing eye surgeries
  •  Prescribing contact lenses and glasses, and more. 

An eye specialist plays an essential role in promoting and maintaining good eye health for individuals of all ages. Here is a useful read on how eye specialists help patients in different ways :

1. Diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases:

An eye specialist is well-trained to treat various eye conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. If left undiagnosed, these conditions may cause blindness or vision loss. So, it’s important to consult an eye specialist and get appropriate treatment. An eye specialist uses different diagnostic tests, such as tonometry, visual acuity tests, and ophthalmoscopy, to examine your eye condition and provide appropriate treatment.

2. Prescription of contact lenses and glasses:

An eye specialist conducts eye examinations and prescribes contact lenses or glasses to correct vision problems such as farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. An eye specialist can also recommend the best type of contact lenses or glasses as per the individual’s needs.

3. Monitoring vision changes:

Eye specialists conduct regular eye examinations and monitor vision changes and make appropriate recommendations. Eye examinations are important as they detect certain eye conditions. Furthermore, regular eye examinations also help in detecting the early signs of various other health problems, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

4. Management of eye injuries:

Eye specialists treat different types of eye injuries, such as corneal abrasions and retinal detachment. Furthermore, they provide treatment for the injury that includes surgery, medication, or lifestyle changes. For example, if the injury involves a foreign object in the eye, an eye specialist can remove it by giving appropriate antibiotics. Also, if there is damage in the cornea, an eye specialist can perform surgical procedures to repair the damage. An eye specialist will also guide you on preventing eye infections and provide rehabilitation services to regain full vision.

5. Coordination of care: 

Eye specialists coordinate with some other healthcare providers, such as neurologists and primary care physicians, for managing the conditions that affect the eyes. For example, diabetes could cause eye damage, so an eye specialist can work closely with a diabetes specialist to make sure that the patient gets good care.

6. Eye care education:

An eye specialist can provide education on preventing eye injuries, maintaining eye health or how to use contact lenses or eyewear. An eye specialist can also give you advice on protecting your eyes from UV rays, computer screens and other environmental factors that lead to eye damage or eye strain. Besides, an eye specialist provides guidance on maintaining healthy eyesight with age.

Note: If you are experiencing any type of vision problems such as eye floaters, blurred vision, double vision, or struggling to read or see objects at a distance or seeing halos around bright lights, it is best to consult an eye specialist.

Are you looking for the best eye specialist in Kolkata?

We at Disha Eye Hospitals, have the best eye specialists in Kolkata. Our eye specialists offer various treatments for eye conditions such as  glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. We also have a paediatric ophthalmology unit, emergency OPD, and neuro-ophthalmology unit. For more information, Book online consultation or visit the nearest branch. 

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How to Protect Retina? Check these Useful Insights Curated by Some of the Best Retina Specialists

retina specialist
The retina is a thin sheet of neural tissue at the back of the eye that converts light into tiny electrical signals that are interpreted by the brain as visual information. The sensitive nature of the retina means it should be taken care of properly to keep your sight functioning at its best. So, how to protect the retina? Check these useful insights curated by some of the best retina specialists :

1. Go for regular eye exams: Regular eye exams are the best way to detect any potential problems early. An eye exam can detect early signs of retina conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, which can be treated if detected early. It is recommended to have an eye exam every 1-2 years for adults with no symptoms and every year for those at higher risk for eye diseases.

2. Use protective eyewear:

When you are participating in activities such as cycling, running, or swimming, it is always recommended to use protective eyewear. Protective glasses, safety goggles, and helmets can protect you from eye injuries.

3. Eat a healthy diet:

Eating a diet filled with vegetables, fruits and omega-3 fatty acids is important for the health of your retina. Nutrients such as vitamins and antioxidants can significantly reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

4. Do not smoke:

Smoking has been linked to a greater risk of age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. It is never too late to make positive changes in your lifestyle, so if you do smoke, make an effort to break the habit as soon as possible to protect your eyesight.

5. Control chronic conditions:

Some chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, can cause eye diseases. You have to manage all these conditions through medication and lifestyle changes. Uncontrolled diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy, which can even lead to vision loss. High cholesterol and high blood pressure can also lead to retinal problems, so it is important to keep these conditions under control.

6. Limit exposure to UV rays:

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, make sure to wear sunglasses that provide adequate UV protection or a wide-brimmed hat to cover your face from the sun. Even if you do not spend much time outdoors, ensure that your eyeglasses offer full UV protection, as sun rays can cause damage even in indoor settings.

7. Use good lighting: 

Prolonged exposure to excessive glare and bright light can result in uncomfortable eye strain and eye damage over time. This is why it is important to ensure that when reading or working at a computer, proper lighting is used. Taking simple preventive steps such as using a computer screen filter to reduce glare and installing proper task lighting will protect your retina.

8. Take regular breaks: 

Taking regular breaks when using a computer is essential for reducing eye fatigue and strain.

Prolonged use of electronic screens, such as mobile devices and computers, can cause digital eye strain, which may result in blurred vision, dry eyes and even headaches. When using a computer, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Following this rule means that every 20 minutes, you take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This brief distraction not only helps to reduce symptoms associated with digital eye strain but also helps you improve focus.

9. Be aware of your family history: 

If your family has a history of retina conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or retinal detachment, you could develop these conditions. Check your family history and visit a retina specialist annually. 

Are you looking for a good retina specialist?

If you are searching online with the phrases “retina specialist near me” or “retina specialist in my location,” consider Disha Eye Hospitals. We have the best retina specialists who are experts at treating retinal conditions. Call us to book an appointment at the nearest branch .

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Who is a Good Candidate for Laser Eye Treatment?

laser eye treatment

The eye is a complex biological structure that lets us see the world around us. Cornea is an important part of the eye – the cornea along with the lens help to focus incoming light onto the retina. However, due to various factors there can be changes in the cornea’s shape which can impact vision negatively. A number of serious vision issues, such as astigmatism and nearsightedness, can arise from these corneal changes. 

Laser eye treatment is an effective procedure that reshapes the cornea and rectifies these issues. Different approaches may be used depending on which vision condition requires correcting. If you are planning for laser eye treatment, here is a good read. We discuss some  useful insights on who is a good candidate for laser eye treatment:

1. Must be 18+ years of age:

Before LASIK surgery, eye surgeons will ensure that your eyes are stable and not changing rapidly. Before the age of 18, the eyes undergo various changes, which can impact the outcome of LASIK surgery. When you are aged 18+ years, the chances of a successful outcome with laser treatment are much higher.

2. Have a stable vision prescription:

Even if you are aged more than 18 years, your prescriptions could still change. If you want to have an effective laser eye treatment, you should have a stable prescription. Most eye surgeons recommend that you have a good prescription for one or two years before you get the laser eye treatment.

3. Overall health is good:

Your overall health could impact your candidacy for laser eye treatment. If you are suffering from diabetes or certain autoimmune diseases, you may not be the right candidate for laser eye treatment. Some eye conditions, such as glaucoma or cataracts, may even be dangerous for laser eye treatment. Your eye surgeon will check whether you have any pre-existing health conditions impacting your ability to have laser eye treatment.

4. Should not have dry eyes:

If you have a history of dry eye or have dry eye syndrome, recovering from laser eye treatment is quite difficult. Screening for dry eye is a part of pre-laser eye treatment. If you are prone to dry eyes, your eye doctor will first recommend ways to treat them.

5. If you are suffering from farsightedness:

Hyperopia is the clinical name for farsightedness. If you have farsightedness, you can see distant objects very clearly, but things can appear blurry at a close distance. Farsightedness is mainly caused by the cornea’s curvature becoming too flat. Laser eye treatment can correct this condition by reshaping the cornea.

6. If you are suffering from nearsightedness:

Myopia is the other name for nearsightedness. It is where you can see the objects that are close, but the objects at a distance appear blurred. This is due to the steepness of cornea curvature. Eye surgeons can correct this condition through laser eye treatment by reshaping the cornea.

7. If you are suffering from astigmatism:

If you have astigmatism, the cornea or lens of your eye is irregularly shaped – instead of being round, they are shaped like a football or an egg. Laser eye treatment can fix the uneven curvature of the cornea.

Who is unsuitable for laser eye treatment? 

Laser eye treatment is not suitable for people who:

  • Take medications that can cause vision changes
  • Have had changes in the eye prescriptions in the last 6 to 12 months
  • Are younger than 18
  • Are nursing or pregnant
  • Have thin corneas

Are you looking for the best eye hospital for laser eye treatment?

Disha Eye Hospitals is one of the reputed eye hospitals for laser eye treatment. We offer both contoura LASIK and normal LASIK. Our LASIK eye surgeons have performed more than 10,00,000 successful surgeries. Furthermore, our eye surgeons are well-versed in advanced medical techniques. To know the eye laser treatment cost, feel free to contact us.

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Why Can Eye Problems Go Undetected?

eye hospital

Eye care refers to the healthcare and management of eyes, including the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and disorders. It involves regular eye exams, screenings and treatments to maintain healthy eyes and vision. Despite the importance of eye care, many people neglect their eye health. This can lead to eye problems that could have been prevented or treated if caught early.

Here we discuss some of the reasons why eye problems can go undetected:

1. Glaucoma and early dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Some eye conditions may not produce noticeable symptoms in their early stages, such as early stages of glaucoma and early dry age-related macular degeneration. Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” as the damage caused by the eye disease may not be noticeable soon. As the disease progresses, one starts noticing symptoms such as eye pain and blurred vision. Similarly, in the early stages of AMD, one may not notice any symptoms, and by the time symptoms appear, the disease may already be at an advanced stage. 

2. Lack of awareness: Some people may not be aware that their symptoms could be related to an eye problem and may not seek medical attention as a result. Some people may assume that the symptoms are simply a normal part of ageing and may not seek medical attention. It is important for individuals to be aware of any changes in their vision or eye symptoms, even if they think that they may be a normal part of ageing. Regular eye exams can help detect any potential problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and preserving vision.

3. Diabetes history: People suffering from diabetes are at a high risk of developing diabetic retinopathy which can cause vision loss if not treated early. Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where uncontrolled blood sugar levels can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the retina. In the early stages of the condition, there may be no noticeable symptoms or vision changes.

4. Lack of access: In some areas, mostly in rural areas, access to quality eye healthcare services can be difficult. Also, expensive eye healthcare can be another reason for people not seeking medical attention.

5. Lack of regular eye checkups: Not getting regular eye checkups can affect your eye health. As mentioned above, regular eye exams can help your eye doctor detect diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration in their early stages. Also, eye exams can also detect underlying health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

6. Underestimating the importance of eye health : Unformately, many people do not take their eye health seriously. This can be due to a lack of understanding of the importance of eye health or a belief that vision loss only affects older individuals.

Looking for a good eye hospital in West Bengal for eye exams? 

If you are looking for a good eye hospital in West Bengal for getting your eyes checked, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. Our team of doctors have years of experience and can detect a wide range of eye problems, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. We have a dedicated Diagnostic And Imaging Services. We offer a wide range of tests including:

  •  A-Scan Biometry
  • B-Scan
  • Keratometry
  • Specular Microscopy
  • Pachymetry/Cct
  • Gonioscopy 
  • Tonometry/At
  • Corneal Topography/Oculyzer
  • Digital Fundus Angiography
  • Indirect Ophthalmoscopy and more 

 

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Cornea Surgery Check these Useful Insights on Post-surgery Care

Cornea surgery

Cornea is the transparent layer of the eye that lets light reach the retina and lens, thus enabling vision. It also acts as a barrier against infections – cornea contains a number of protective mechanisms such as tear film, epithelial layer, and immune cells, which help to prevent infections from penetrating into the eye. 

The cornea can be damaged due to multiple reasons such as:

  • Trauma
  • Chemical injury
  • Infection
  • Dry
  • Prolonged or improper use of contact lenses
  • Genetic disorders
  • Age – related factors 

Cornea surgery or cornea transplant can be required, when the cornea is severely damaged and conservative treatments can not be used to treat it. Cornea surgeries are usually recommended for these conditions: 

  • Corneal scarring or clouding
  • Keratoconus
  • Refractive errors 
  • Pterygium
  • Fuchs’ dystrophy

Check this useful read on common corneal problems . 

Here we discuss some important factors to avoid doing after cornea surgery:

1. Rubbing or touching eyes: After cornea surgery, patients should avoid rubbing and touching their eyes because it can cause irritation and increase the risk of infection. Also, it will delay the healing process and cause further complications. If the eyes feel itchy or uncomfortable, they should use eye drops as prescribed by their surgeon. 

2. Wearing eye makeup: Eye makeup can cause irritation and even increase the risk of infection. It can also slow down the healing process and cause complications.

3. Do not wear contact lenses: After cornea surgery, patients should avoid wearing contact lenses for some days – as lenses can exert pressure on the eye and slow down the healing process. Also, patients should wear glasses to protect their eyes from dust and dirt during the recovery period.

4. Swimming:  Patients should avoid swimming after cornea surgery – as exposing their eyes to moisture can increase the risk of infection. 

5. Strenuous activities: After cornea surgery patients should avoid playing sports, gyming or lifting weights for a certain period of time. Strenuous activities can exert pressure on the eyes, increasing the risk of bleeding.

6. Exposing eyes to dust or smoke: After cornea surgery, patients should protect their eyes from dust and smoke as it can lead to irritation, infection and delay healing. 

7. Using non-prescribed medication: After cornea surgery, patients should not use non-prescribed eye drops and medicines as they can cause irritation, side effects and delayed healing. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and only use the eye drops or medication prescribed by them.

8. Driving: Until the follow up appointments are done, doctors will recommend patients to avoid driving for a certain period of time. Once the doctors give the green signal, patients can start driving again, but only short distances. Additionally, they should avoid driving at night or in the dark as it causes stress on the eyes. 

9. Ignoring symptoms: It is important to contact a doctor immediately if the patient experiences any symptoms such as redness, pain, discharge, or decreased vision. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complications. 

Success of cornea surgery: Factors to note

There are multiple factors that determine the success of a cornea surgery such as:

  • The extent of damage
  • The treatment and surgical technique used
  • The expertise of the surgeon
  • Patient’s immunity to donor transplant, to name a few. 

Before surgery, patients need to discuss the success rate of their eye surgery with their eye surgeon. The long- term success rates of a cornea transplant can vary widely. Also, it is important to note that the patient’s vision is usually blurred post surgery and will gradually improve over time. 

Looking for for more information on cornea surgery and cornea surgery types

To know more information, you can visit our resource section on cornea. We have highly-skilled eye surgeons who use the latest technology to ensure a successful and efficient procedure. If your family member is suffering from a corneal disease or has a damaged cornea, schedule a consultation today. To find the nearest branch to book an appointment, visit our contact us page. 

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Signs of a Cornea Problem

cataract surgery
The cornea is the front part of the eye that plays a crucial role in vision.  It refracts, or bends light as it enters the eye to focus it on the retina. It also protects the eyes from dust, wind and foreign particles.   Given the important role that the cornea plays, it is important to ensure that it is healthy. Here are some signs of a cornea problem that you should know about so that you can seek medical assistance without delay:

Pain or discomfort:

Pain or discomfort in or around the eye should not be ignored as it is usually a sign of a cornea problem. It can range from mild, uncomfortable feelings, including excessive tearing, dryness, or feeling like something is stuck in the eye. 

Blurred vision:

As the cornea is responsible for the eye’s focusing power, any damage to the cornea can result in blurred vision. If you are experiencing blurred vision while reading or driving, you must see an eye doctor immediately.

Redness:

Redness in the eye can indicate an issue with the cornea. Infection, inflammation, or even a foreign object stuck in the eye can be a sign of an infection or other complications. If left untreated, a cornea problem can worsen. 

Sensitivity to light:

A damaged cornea can make the eye more sensitive to light. If you are experiencing discomfort because of bright lights, you should see an eye doctor to get to the root cause of the problem. 

Discharge:

If you wake up with a crusty eye and discharge, it is important to pay attention as it could be more than just an irritated eye. In fact, these symptoms can indicate a serious problem with the cornea that requires medical attention. Corneal infection or inflammation might cause these signs and symptoms, which could lead to a potentially dangerous corneal ulcer if untreated.

Difficulty with contact lenses:

The cornea holds the contact lens in place.  If your contact lenses are not fitting well or causing discomfort suddenly, you must see an eye doctor.  It could be a sign of an underlying cornea problem. 

Common cornea problems are::

  • Corneal abrasions: A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the surface of the cornea. This can be caused by foreign particles in the eye or wearing wrong-size of contact lenses. 
  • Corneal dystrophies: Corneal dystrophies are a group of inherited disorders that affect the cornea. 
  • Keratoconus: It is a condition in which the cornea bulges, leading to blurred vision and light sensitivity. 
  • Fuch’s dystrophy: Fuch’s dystrophy is a condition in which the cells that produce the innermost layer of the cornea die. This causes the cornea to swell. 

When is cornea surgery needed? 

A cornea transplant is needed to repair or replace a damaged cornea. The transplant is also done to alleviate pain or other symptoms caused by cornea diseases. 

Are you looking for more information on cornea surgery?

To know more on  cornea surgery types such as corneal transplantation, ocular surface and reconstructive surgery, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. For more information contact us  .

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What to expect at your first retina appointment?


If you are seeing a retinal specialist for the first time, you may not know what to expect. The best way to get the most out of your retinal consultation is to come prepared. A retina specialist specialises in the treatment of conditions and diseases affecting the retina. Some of the common diseases treated by a retina specialist are:

  • Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Retinal detachment
  • Macular hole/pucker

As a leading eye hospital in West Bengal, we share with you useful insights on what you can expect at your first retina appointment:

1. A retina exam is more extensive than a routine eye exam: 

A retinal eye exam is more comprehensive than a routine eye exam.  Your initial appointment with a retina specialist may take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the diagnostic tests recommended.

2. Questions you will be asked 

Just like any other eye exam, you will be asked about:

  •  Medical history 
  •  Symptoms you are experiencing
  • Any medications that you are taking3. Tests that are done before the appointment: 

Some of the common tests that will be done include: 

  • Pupil dilation test: This test is performed to make the pupils large so that the retinal specialist can examine the optic nerve and retina. 

While your eyes are dilated, the retinal specialist may order specialised tests such as: 

  • Optical Coherence Tomography or OCT
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Fundus Photography
  • Fundus Autofluorescence Imaging 

    4. What to bring to your appointment with a retina specialist:

When you visit a retina specialist for an appointment, it is important to bring along  important documents. 

  • If you have had any major surgery, bring the discharge summary and other hospital documents.
  • It is also helpful to bring documents that has information about your family’s medical history.
  • In addition, be sure to bring along the name and contact information of the referring doctor, as well as the reason for referral.
  • Bring a complete list of all medications you are currently taking. 

    5. How to prepare for a retinal eye exam? 

Here are a few things you can do to prepare for a retinal exam: 

  • It’s important to bring your glasses or contact lenses with you to your eye doctor appointment. This will help the retina specialist get an accurate measure of your prescription.
  • After pupil dilation, you will not be able to drive back home as your vision will be blurry.  Have someone to drive you home.
  • Bring along a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare when you are heading back home. 

    6. What will happen during the exam? 

By shining a light into your eye, the retina specialist can get a clear view of the back of the eye. This allows your retina specialist to look for any signs of damage or disease. The retina specialist uses one or more of these techniques for viewing your eye condition:

  • Direct examination: The direct examination is performed with an ophthalmoscope, which allows the doctor to shine a beam of light through the pupil to get a clear view of the back of the eye.
  • Indirect examination: The indirect examination, also known as indirect ophthalmoscopy, uses a condensing lens and a bright light to provide a more detailed look at the retina and other structures inside the eye.
  • Slit-lamp exam: A slit-lamp exam is often performed to get an even closer look at the back of the eye. This exam uses a special lens and a beam of light to provide a clear, three-dimensional view of the eye. 

Note: Usually, the retinal exam takes about 10 minutes, but you will be in the eye hospital for hours. It is because pupil dilation needs some time.

Looking for a retina specialist? 

If you live in West Bengal and are looking for a “retina specialist near me” online, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have some of the best retina specialists who can help you choose the right treatment option. Call us to book an appointment at the nearest branch.

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FAQs on Diabetic Macular Edema

eye hospital
If you suffer from diabetes, you need to keep your blood sugar levels under control. High blood sugar can lead to a host of other problems, including eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma.  Diabetic macular edema is one of the most serious eye conditions. This condition occurs when the blood vessels in the eye leak fluids, causing the macula (the centre of the retina) to swell. If left untreated, it can lead to loss of vision. As a reputed eye hospital in West Bengal, we have curated some FAQs and their answers on diabetic macular edema that you might find useful:

Question: 1 What is diabetic macular edema?

Diabetic macular edema is one of the leading causes of vision loss in diabetic people. It is a diabetes complication caused by the accumulation of fluid in the macula of the eye, which is a small area near the centre of the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye and the macula is responsible for the sharp vision. When fluid builds up in the macula, it causes the area to swell, which can distort vision. 

Question: 2 How does diabetes lead to macular edema?

When blood sugar levels are high, it can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes. This can lead to a condition called diabetic retinopathy, in which the vessels leak. This can cause the retina to swell, resulting in reduced vision. In severe cases, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness. 

When fluid seeps into the retina, it can cause diabetic macular edema. The leaking makes the retina swell, affecting the vision. 

Question: 3 What can cause macular edema besides diabetes?

Some causes of macular edema include :

    • Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): It is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. In a certain type of AMD,, abnormal blood vessels in the macula leak fluid into the retina causing swelling in the macula.
    • Retinitis pigmentosa (RP): It is a genetic disease that also causes swelling in the macula.
    • Uveitis: It is inflammation in the eye that happens when the immune system attacks the tissue of the eye.
    • Blocked veins in the retina: It can cause leakage into the macula and subsequent swelling.
    • Eye surgery: People who had surgery to treat another eye condition including cataracts, may also be at risk for developing macular edema.

 

  • Certain medicines: Some medicines, like medicines to treat glaucoma, can cause macular edema as a side effect.

Question: 4 Are diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema same?

Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema are diabetic-related vision conditions but the two are different. Here are some differences between those two:

  • Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages the retina. It is a progressive condition that typically affects both eyes and it can eventually lead to blindness. If you have diabetes, it’s important to monitor your eye health care and see an ophthalmologist regularly to catch any signs of retinopathy early.
  • Diabetic macular edema: Diabetic macular edema is a complication of diabetic retinopathy that affects the macula.   It occurs when the macula swells. This can lead to blurred vision. While there is no cure for diabetic macular edema , early diagnosis and treatment can help slow its progression and prevent loss of vision. 

Question: 5 How do you know if you have diabetic macular edema?

Diabetic macular edema can cause symptoms such as:

  • Double vision
  • Blurry or wavy vision
  • Floaters and blind spots
  • Faded, less vibrant colours
  • Partial or total vision loss

Question: 6 How do you get rid of diabetic macular edema?

diabetic macular edema can be effectively treated with anti-VEGF injections. These injections work by stopping the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that promotes the growth of blood vessels. By reducing leakage from damaged blood vessels and slowing the progression of diabetic macular edema, anti-VEGF injections can help preserve vision.

Question: 7 How long does it take to cure macular edema?

It takes approximately one to four months to  treat diabetic macular edema. The duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the condition. 

Question: 8 Can you have macular edema without retinopathy?

No, you cannot have diabetic macular edema diabetic retinopathy. 

Question: 9 Which is the best eye hospital for diabetic retinopathy treatment?

If you are looking for a reputed eye hospital in West Bengal, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have retinal specialists who can help diagnose and treat various diseases such as retinal tears, diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment. In addition to treatment for retinal diseases, we offer treatment for various eye problems such as glaucoma , cataracts , and corneal diseases. If you are experiencing any eye-related problems, book an online consultation or call us to book an appointment at your nearest branch. 

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FAQs on Laser photocoagulation

laser eye treatment
If you have been recommended to undergo laser photocoagulation, you are bound to have questions. Here we have curated a list of frequently asked questions and their answers on laser photocoagulation and the eye laser treatment cost that you will find useful: 

Question 1: What is laser photocoagulation used for?

Laser photocoagulation is laser eye treatment that is used to treat retinal conditions. The laser eye treatment is done to prevent the worsening of retinal disorders and reduce the risk of potential vision loss. 

Question 2: What does laser photocoagulation do?

This laser eye treatment  is used to seal off a tear or leaking blood vessels. It can also slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye. The procedure cannot restore vision that is already lost, but it can reduce your risk of experiencing future vision loss.

Question 3: For what eye conditions is laser photocoagulation used? 

This laser eye treatment  is used to treat retinal conditions such as 

  • Retinal tears
  • Retinal detachment
  • Diabetic retinopathy 
  • Macular edema 
  • Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)

Question 4: Who performs laser photocoagulation? 

Retina specialists perform laser photocoagulation. They are ophthalmologists who specialise in diseases of the retina. This gives them special training to safely perform laser photocoagulation.

Question 5: Is retinal laser photocoagulation painful?

The laser eye treatment is performed under topical anaesthesia. This is done to reduce the pain. The procedure is relatively painless and you may just feel a mild pricking sensation during the surgery. The entire procedure takes 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the retinal disease being treated. 

Question 6: How long does laser photocoagulation take to heal?

Well, the recovery time varies from two to three weeks. The exact recovery time will vary from one person to another, depending on the age, type of retinal disorder and general health. 

Question 7: Is laser photocoagulation safe?

Yes, this laser eye treatment is both safe and effective in the treatment of retina disorders. However, just like any surgery, there are some associated risks involved. Talk to your retinal specialist about these before proceeding with surgery.

Question 8: Will I have pain?

You may have some discomfort around your treated eye. Your ophthalmologist is likely to prescribe your pain-relievers. However, you must contact your eye doctor in case of severe pain and discomfort.

Question 9: When can I wear contact lenses after laser photocoagulation?

Generally, you can wear your contact lenses once the redness has gone. This is usually within two to three days after the laser eye treatment.

Question 10: Can I drive home after laser photocoagulation? 

No, you cannot drive home the same after having the laser treatment done. You can drive the next day or when your ophthalmologist gives a go-ahead. However, if you are having vision problems, you should wait until you feel comfortable driving and your ophthalmologist says that it is safe for you to drive.

Question 11: When can I resume work after photocoagulation? 

You should take off work the day of your procedure. You will probably be able to return to work the following day. If your work is physical, you must ask your doctor when you can return to work.

Question 12: What can you not do after photocoagulation laser?

Here are some precautions you should take after laser eye treatment :

  • Don’t take a shower or wash your hair until the day after.
  • Don’t rub your eyes.
  • Use all eye drops, including artificial tears, that are prescribed by your doctor.
  • Wear the eye shield the doctor gave you while you sleep for the first week.
  • Keep tap water out of your eyes for at least a week.
  • Avoid swimming pools for at least 3 to 4 weeks.
  • No eye makeup for at least a week. 
  • No exercise for two days.
  • Avoid dusty environments. 
  • Avoid bright sunshine. Wear sunglasses on bright days.  
     
    Looking for laser eye treatment in Kolkata? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have YAG laser for laser eye treatment. It is used in retinal, cataract and glaucoma therapy. It is optimal for photocoagulation, post-cataract treatments, laser trabeculoplasty and combined iridotomy. To know the eye laser treatment cost, book an appointment at your nearest branch

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Corneal Transplantation Rejection: Check these Useful Insights

cornea surgery
A corneal transplant is a surgery done to replace a damaged part of the cornea with tissue from a donor. The cornea is the transparent surface of the eye that allows light to enter the eye. A  corneal surgery can restore vision and reduce pain. It can also improve the appearance of a damaged cornea. However, just like any surgery, a cornea transplant involves some risks and possible complications. One such complication is corneal transplantation rejection. Here we share with you useful insights on corneal transplantation rejection:

1. Why is a corneal transplant done? 

A corneal transplant is done to correct eye problems such as 

  • Cornea scarring 
  • Corneal ulcers 
  • Keratoconus
  • Swelling of the cornea
  • Fuchs’ dystrophy 
  • Problems caused by an earlier eye surgery 
     
    2. What happens if cornea transplant is rejected?

Corneal transplant rejection is the most common cause of transplant failure once the surgery is done. The rejection happens when the immune system doesn’t accept the cornea.

3. When does the rejection occur? 

Rejection can occur a few weeks after a cornea transplant. However, it’s more common after several months. It can happen even years after the transplantation.

4. Symptoms of corneal transplantation rejection

Here are some common symptoms that the body has rejected the donated cornea:

  • Red eye
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Vision problems 
  • Eye pain

You should rush to the emergency ward of an eye hospital if you notice these symptoms  after a cornea surgery:

5. How is the cornea chosen? 

Corneal tissue used in the transplant comes from people who have died. Corneas are not used from people who died from unknown causes or from donors who had certain medical conditions such as AIDS and hepatitis. The donor cornea can be used only if it passes the screening test. However, unlike liver and kidney transplants, people needing cornea transplants don’t require tissue matching.

6. What are the different types of corneal transplant? 

Cornea surgery types include the following:

Endothelial keratoplasty: In this corneal surgery, the inner layer of the cornea is replaced with a healthy inner layer of a donor cornea. This is used for those suffering from Fuchs’ dystrophy. The risk of rejection in this case is lower than others as too much tissue is not used.

Anterior lamellar keratoplasty : In this corneal surgery, the outer layer of the cornea is replaced with a healthy outer layer of a donor cornea. This is mostly used in patients with keratoconus and scarring of the uppermost layers of the cornea.

Penetrating keratoplasty:  In this corneal surgery, the entire cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.

7. Why would a transplanted cornea be rejected?

A corneal transplant is considered rejected when the donated tissue doesn’t receive the blood supply. The immune system recognises that the tissue as foreign and rejects it.

8. Corneal transplantation rejection is reversible: 

Cornea transplant rejection is generally reversible. The problem can often be treated effectively with steroid eye drops.  However, the chances of successful treatment is better when you seek medical intervention early on. 

9. Ways to avoid corneal transplantation rejection 

The risk for complications after corneal surgery varies from one individual to another, depending on a variety of factors. Some of the factors that are: 

  • Age
  • Pre-existing medical conditions
  • Other existing eye problems
  • Original reason for the cornea transplantation

To help avoid corneal transplantation rejection, it’s important to follow all post-surgery instructions after surgery. Ask your eye doctor about your own risks for cornea transplantation.

Looking for an eye hospital for cornea surgery? 

Visit Disha Eye Hospitals for cornea-related problems. We have a dynamic team of cornea subspecialty ophthalmologists who are skilled in the latest medical and surgical care of patients with corneal diseases. We offer corneal transplantation and our doctors perform modern lamellar techniques such as DSEK, DMEK and DALK. We also have a microbiology lab to help us manage any case of corneal or surface infections.

We are among the few eye hospitals in West Bengal to have its own eye bank. The eye bank is located at our Barrackpore Branch.  Book an appointment at your nearest branch .