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How to choose a paediatric eye doctor?

It is recommended that your children get their first eye check-up at the age of six months. It is because proper vision is essential for your children to learn and attain success at school. An optometrist can assess your child’s vision, but a paediatric eye doctor at an eye hospital has the special experience to understand issues that are specific to children. Here are some of the tips to choose a paediatric eye doctor for your children:

1. Ask around for recommendations:

One of the best ways to find a reputable eye doctor is to ask for recommendations from people you trust. Family, friends and colleagues who have children can be a great resource, as they are likely to have recent experience with paediatric eye care. You should also take the time to read online reviews to get an idea of how a doctor is.

2. Check out their credentials and qualifications:

When choosing a paediatric eye doctor, it is important to check their credentials and qualifications. A qualified paediatrician will have completed specialised training in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood eye conditions. They will also be up-to-date on the latest advances in paediatric ophthalmology and have access to the latest technology. Additionally, it is important to choose a paediatrician who has experience treating children of all ages, as some conditions are more common in certain age groups. 

3. Find out how many years of experience they have?

It is crucial to select an experienced paediatric eye doctor who has a wealth of experience in treating children’s vision problems. Experienced paediatric eye doctors will know how to keep children calm and comfortable during an eye exam will know the best terminology to explain what is happening at each stage of the appointment without it seeming scary in children’s eye treatment.

4. Visit them in person:

Meeting a paediatric eye doctor personally will allow you to get a feel for how the doctor interacts with your child. You’ll be able to see what special provisions they have in place to help children feel comfortable. After the visit to the doctor, speak to your children and find out how they feel.

5. The services they provide:

When you are looking for a paediatric eye doctor, do consider what type of eye services your child requires. For instance, some paediatric eye doctors offer treatment for conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (crossed eyes). If your child plays sports, you may also want to find an eye doctor who offers sports vision services. 

Here’s a useful read on questions to ask when you meet your child’s doctor . 

Looking for an eye hospital in West Bengal for your child?

Disha Eye Hospitals is a reputed eye hospital in West Bengal. We have a dedicated paediatric ophthalmology unit that has an advanced eye care facility offering treatment for ophthalmic problems in children. Our paediatric ophthalmologists deal with various diseases such as paediatric strabismus, paediatric cataracts, adult strabismus, retinopathy of prematurity, amblyopia and paediatric glaucoma. Find the nearest branch and book an appointment.

 

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Check these facts on detached retina

A retina is a thin layer of tissue that contains the cells responsible for sending visual signals to the brain. A detached retina is when the thin layer at the back of the eye) becomes loose. It needs to be treated quickly to stop it from permanently affecting the vision. If left untreated, a detached retina can lead to blindness.  A retina specialist can examine the retina and the blood vessels that supply it and suggest the appropriate course of treatment.   Here are some of the facts about the detached retina:

1. Symptoms of a detached retina:

  • Suddenly flashes of light will appear in the vision 
  • Dots or lines suddenly appear in your vision or suddenly increase in number
  • Your vision suddenly gets blurred
  • You may have a dark “shadow” moving across your vision

2. How is a detached retina tear diagnosed?

A detached retina is not visible from the outside of the eye. Only a comprehensive eye exam can detect them. Your eye doctor will use a light magnification instrument to view the inside of your eye.

3. Treatment for a detached retina:

If you experience symptoms such as flashing lights or floaters, it is important to see an ophthalmologist right away. They will perform a number of tests to determine whether or not the retina is affected. If the tests show that the retina can be detached, you will be referred to a retina specialist who will perform surgery to prevent the problem from getting worse.

There are several different treatment options available for a detached retina, depending on the severity of the condition. Here are some common surgical  procedures used to treat detached retina: 

  • Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the area around the retina to seal it back in place.
  • Laser surgery: A laser is used to weld the retina back to the eye wall. In some cases, a detached retina can be treated with medication or a special type of contact lens. Here’s a useful read on laser surgery for retinal tear.

4. What happens during surgery for a detached retina or tear?

Surgery to fix a retinal tear or re-attach the retina may involve:

  • Replacing or removing the jelly inside your eye.
  • To push the retina against the back of your eye, inject a bubble of gas into your eye.
  • To push the wall of your eye attach a small band around your eye.
  • Seal the tear in your retina with a freezing treatment.
  •  During surgery you’re awake but your eye is numbed. 

Recovery time after retinal surgery varies from one patient to another. But as a general guide, after surgery:

  • Your eye may be sore and red 
  • Your vision may be blurry
  • You may not be able to drive
  • You may need to take time off work
  • You may need to avoid flying

Looking for a retina specialist in Kolkata?

If you live in Kolkata and are searching the internet with the phrases such as “retina specialist near me”  or ‘best retina specialist my location’, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have retina specialists who have extensive experience in treating a wide range of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and retinal tear and diabetic retinopathy. To consult our retina specialist, visit the nearest branch.

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How to prevent eye strain from computer screens?

If you work at a computer all day, you may probably be familiar with eye  strain. While eye strain is a common problem, there are things you can take to reduce your discomfort. Here are some of the tips to prevent eye strain from computer screens suggested by our eye specialists:

What is eye strain? 

Eye strain is a condition that can occur when your eyes are overworked. It is often caused by extended periods of staring at a computer screen or reading. Some of the common symptoms of eye strain include:

  • Tired, aching or heavy eyelids
  • Muscle spasms of the eye or eyelid
  • Red, watery, irritated eyes
  • Headaches 
  • Blurred vision or double vision

Here are a few ways to prevent eye strain from computer screens:

1. Use anti-glare eyeglasses :

Your eye specialist can give you an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare on prescription glasses. This can help your eyes feel comfortable. Some of the choices of lenses include:

  • Bifocal lenses: Bifocals are a type of corrective lens that contain two distinct prescription powers in a single lens. The most common bifocal design features a small reading lens positioned in the lower portion of the lens, with the main distance viewing area above it. 
  • Single-vision lenses: If you need help seeing things up close, you would need a single-vision lens for reading. These lenses are used just for computer work. 
  • Progressive lenses: These lenses may have a large middle section for computer use. 

Talk with your eye specialist about your daily computer use and which type of lens suits you. It is also important that you have the right prescription for your eye problem for reducing your eyestrain.

2. Use eye drops:

Using a computer for long hours could lead to causing your eyes to dry  and also your eyes to get irritated due to the reduced blinking. You can use over-the-counter artificial tears whenever your eyes are feeling dry. If those eye drops do not work, talk to your eye specialist. He/she will suggest you some other medication.

3. Adjust your computer monitor and settings:

To help reduce eye strain, it is important to adjust the monitor settings. The top of the screen should be eye level and the font size should be large enough to read without strain. Also, the brightness of the screen should be adjusted so that it is not too bright or too dark. Moreover, take frequent breaks to give your eyes a chance to rest. Set your screen refresh rate at 70 to 85 Hz to avoid flickering on the computer screen.

4. Take a break:

There are some measures you can take to reduce the risks associated with extended computer use. Getting up and moving around for a few minutes will help to stretch your muscles and give your eyes a chance to rest. Also, you can try the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to look at an object 20 feet away. This will help to reduce eye muscle fatigue and strain. Here’s an interesting read on the 20-20-20 rule.

5. See an eye specialist:

Even though trying all the above solutions, if you do not get relief consult an eye specialist. Make an appointment with an eye specialist if you need new prescription glasses or medications.

Are you looking for the best eye specialist in Kolkata?

To consult our eye specialist, visit the nearest branch. Our eye specialists have extensive clinical and surgical expertise in their respective fields. We offer affordable treatment for cataracts ,  glaucoma, and corneal diseases.  

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Frequently asked questions about laser eye surgery

LASIK or laser eye treatment is the best known and most commonly performed surgery to correct refractive errors. LASIK surgery helps to reduce dependence on prescription glasses and contact lenses.  Here we answer some of the common questions asked on LASIK:

Question: 1 How does LASIK surgery work?

During laser eye treatment, a special type of cutting laser is used to change the shape of the cornea. This helps to bend light correctly onto the retina at the back of the eye, providing clear vision. 

The LASIK eye treatment is relatively quick and painless and most people experience significant improvements in their vision after the surgery. If you are considering LASIK eye treatment, it is important to consult with an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if you are a good candidate for the surgery.

Question: 2 How quickly will I see the results of laser eye surgery?

The level of discomfort you experience afterward depends upon the type of laser treatment you’ve undergone, but it is usually short-lived. Most people are able to enjoy the benefits of improved vision within a matter of days.

Question: 3 When can I go swimming after laser eye surgery?

It is important to take care of your eyes after laser eye treatment. One way to do this is to avoid swimming for at least two weeks. This helps to reduce the risk of infection, as bacteria can potentially enter the eye through the incision sites. Your eye doctor will advise when it is safe to resume swimming. In the meantime, you can still enjoy other activities, such as walking or running. Just be sure to wear sunglasses and avoid direct sunlight.

Question: 4 Am I a candidate for LASIK?

It is essential to understand that not everyone is suitable for laser eye surgery. Some of the basic requirements include:

  • The best corrected vision of at least 20/40
  • A stable eyeglass prescription for at least two years
  • No active eye disease
  • Healthy cornea
  • Over 18 years old

Question: 5 Can I go blind from laser eye treatment?

The laser used in the surgery targets the outermost layer of the eye, which means that there is no risk of permanently damaging the eye. However, as with any surgery, there is always a small risk of infection. If an infection develops, it is important to seek medical treatment immediately in order to avoid serious complications. 

Question: 6 What is the laser eye treatment cost?

The laser eye treatment cost varies depending on the hospital. Choosing a reputable laser eye surgeon and hospital will help to reduce your risk of developing an infection. Our surgeons and staff maintain the highest standards of sterile and surgical protocols to ensure the safety of our patients.

Question: 7 Will my vision be corrected forever?

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. It helps to focus light as it enters the eye and plays an important role in vision. LASIK is a type of refractive surgery that is used to correct vision problems such as near-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism. During laser eye treatment, the cornea is reshaped using a laser. This can improve vision and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Once the cornea has been modified, it tends to stay in its new shape permanently. If there’s any regression in the first three months after surgery, it can be corrected with an enhancement procedure. 

Question: 8 How long does it take to do LASIK?

Usually, the laser eye treatment takes less than 10 minutes per eye. Depending on your prescription and the amount of correction needed, the laser treatment itself takes 20-50 seconds to correct your vision.

Question: 9 Which hospitals offer the best LASIK surgery in Kolkata? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, offer laser eye treatment. We offer normal LASIK and contoura LASIK. Our eye surgeons have performed over 1,000,000 successful surgeries. Our eye doctors are well-versed with the latest medical techniques. Call us to book an appointment at the nearest branch.

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How is a corneal abrasion diagnosed? How is a corneal abrasion treated? And other FAQs are answered here

The cornea is the clear surface that covers the front of the eye. It helps to protect the eye from debris and harmful UV rays. The cornea also plays an important role in focusing light. When the cornea is scratched, the injury is called a corneal abrasion. Small corneal abrasions usually heal in a few days. If you are looking for more information on corneal abrasions, here’s a list of FAQs and their answers: 

Question: 1 What is a corneal abrasion?

A corneal abrasion is a condition in which the clear outer layer of the eye (the cornea) is scratched. This can happen if the cornea is scratched by contact with dust, dirt, sand, fingernail and other objects. It can also happen if the eyes are rubbed too vigorously. 

Question: 2 How is a corneal abrasion diagnosed?

If you think you have scratched your cornea, it is important to see an eye doctor right away. The doctor will first ask about your symptoms and how the injury happened. Then he or she will look at your eye with a bright light and a magnifying lens. In some cases, the doctor may also use a special dye to help see the scratch more clearly.

Symptoms of a corneal injury may include:

  • Blurry vision
  • New eye pain which does not resolve within minutes
  • Increased sensitivity to light 
  • Redness or tearing of the eye

If you experience any of these symptoms after an eye injury, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A doctor can assess the severity of the injury and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Question: 3 How is a corneal abrasion treated?

It is better that you don’t rub your eyes when you are diagnosed with a corneal abrasion. Most of the time, tiny corneal abrasions heal within just a few days. Treatment for a corneal abrasion typically involves using artificial tears to lubricate the eye and help reduce pain and inflammation. Antibiotic ointment or drops may also be prescribed to prevent infection. In more severe cases, a bandage contact lens may be needed to protect the eye while it heals.

Usually, eye doctors prescribe oral pain medication for people with extreme pain until the corneal abrasion is healed. Anesthetics, which is a topical numbing medication, is given to allow examination. 

Note:  Never use numbing medication at home because it can have toxic effects. 

Question: 4 Do corneal abrasions heal completely?

Usually, corneal abrasions heal without causing any problems. However, the surface of the cornea is sometimes not as smooth as before even after the injury has healed. After the abrasion heals some people notice that the eye feels irritated again. This is called “recurrent erosions.” Recurrent erosions occur when the cornea surface is not smooth. 

Recurrent erosions can also occur due to an underlying problem with the eye surface, such as vitamin A deficiency or dry eye. Typically, the recurrent erosions treatment includes artificial tears to help lubricate the eye and protect the eye surface.

Question: 5 How does cornea abrasion feel?

Usually, corneal abrasion is quite painful. You may feel like you have grit or sand in your eyes. You may notice blurred vision or tears or your eye may look red. Also, you may notice that light hurts your eye.

Question: 6 Can dry eyes cause corneal abrasion?

Severe dry eyes may lead to eye inflammation, corneal ulcers, vision loss and abrasion of the corneal surface if left untreated.

Looking for an eye hospital for cornea surgery? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have a dynamic team of cornea sub-specialty ophthalmologists. They are skilled in the latest medical and surgical care of patients with corneal diseases. Some of the cornea surgery types that our eye surgeons perform are: 

  • Keratoplasty
  • Corneal /scleral patch graft
  • Ocular Surface and Reconstructive Surgery

We are also among the few eye hospitals in West Bengal to offer corneal transplantation. We have one of the largest corneal transplant centres in the country. Find the nearest branch and call to book an appointment.

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Searching for the best LASIK surgeon in Kolkata? Check these commonly asked questions by patients

best lasik surgery in kolkata

The LASIK surgery is performed using a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. LASIK surgery can correct refractive errors such as astigmatism, hypermetropia and myopia. LASIK surgery reduces the need for eyeglasses or contacts. For some, it even restores near-perfect vision. If you are considering undergoing LASIK, choosing a surgeon is one of the most important decisions to make. Here are some commonly asked questions by patients when they are searching for a  LASIK surgeon in Kolkata :

1. Is the LASIK eye surgeon experienced in treating my specific condition?

When researching potential LASIK eye surgeons, it is important to consider their experience in treating your specific condition. While all LASIK eye surgeons are trained in the same basic procedures, each surgeon develops their own unique skills and expertise.

2. What are the LASIK eye surgeon’s success rates?

It is important to choose a LASIK eye surgeon who has a high success rate and a good reputation. One way to research a LASIK eye surgeon‘s success rates is to read online reviews and check out each LASIK eye surgeon‘s website for patient testimonials.

3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure?

The most common complication after LASIK surgery is dry eye, which can cause symptoms such as burning, itching, and light sensitivity. Other potential complications include infection, inflammation and corneal haze.  These complications are rare and if they do occur they often go away within a few days. 

4. What is the procedure for LASIK?

During LASIK surgery, a laser is used to create a flap in the cornea, which is then lifted so that the laser can be used to reshape the underlying tissue. This helps to correct refractive error and improve vision.

4. Is there any other alternative to LASIK?

There are many alternatives to LASIK that could reduce your dependence on contact lenses and glasses. Some of the alternatives to LASIK include:

  • Epi-LASIK
  • Phakic Intraocular Lens Implants 
  • Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery.

Note: Though the aim of all these procedures is to correct the shape of the cornea, some medical conditions may make it difficult to carry out LASIK surgery. A LASIK eye surgeon is the best person to tell you which is the most suitable surgery for you.

5. What should I expect after the LASIK surgery? 

After LASIK surgery, you can expect your vision to be significantly improved. It is important to avoid rubbing your eyes for a few days after surgery. You will also need to use artificial tears frequently during the first week or two. It is normal for your eyes to feel dry and scratchy for a few weeks as they heal. Your  LASIK eye surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your eyes after surgery.

6. Which hospitals offer the best LASIK surgery in Kolkata? 

Disha Eye Hospitals is the place where you can find experienced LASIK eye surgeons in Kolkata. Our eye surgeons  have performed over 1,000,000 successful surgeries. Our eye doctors are well-versed with the latest medical techniques and they are supported by state-of-the-art equipment, labs and OTs. Call us to book an appointment at the nearest branch.

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Eye Injuries and Children: Useful Insights for Parents

Children are often at a higher risk for eye injuries for several reasons. They are less likely to follow safety precautions when playing with potentially dangerous objects. Also, they have softer eyeballs, which makes them more susceptible to bruising and damage. As a result, it is important for you as a parent to take precautions to help prevent eye injuries in your children. Here are some useful insights on eye injuries in children that you might find useful:

1. Common causes of eye injuries in children: 

Children often lack the experience and coordination to safely use sharp tools or participate in activities that could potentially lead to an injury. Also, they often do not understand the importance of wearing protective eyewear when engaging in activities that could lead to an injury.  Some of the most eye injuries occur during sports. Hockey, basketball  and archery are responsible for sports-related eye injuries. Playing with toys with sharp edges, handling chemicals (household cleaners and room fresheners), fingernails can also lead to eye injuries.

2. Common eye injuries in children: 

Some of the common types of eye injuries in children:

  • Corneal abrasion: It is a scratch on the surface of the eye. This can happen if a child  is hit in the eye with a toy or if he or she rubs the eye too hard. Symptoms of a corneal abrasion include pain, redness, tearing and light sensitivity. If not treated properly, a corneal abrasion can lead to an infection.

  • Eyelid lacerations: Eyelid lacerations are often caused by foreign objects such as fingers, toys or tree branches. Treatment for an eyelid laceration will depend on the severity of the injury.

  • Hyphema: Hyphema occurs when blood collects in the space between the iris and the cornea. It can cause vision problems and can be painful. The symptoms of hyphema include eye pain, light sensitivity and blurry or distorted vision.
  • Subconjunctival hemorrhage: It occurs when a blood vessel in the eye breaks and bleeds into the space between the conjunctiva and the sclera, the white of the eye. The conjunctiva is a thin, clear membrane that covers the front of the eye. The sclera is the white outer layer that protects the inner structures of the eye.

    3. Tips to prevent eye injuries:

Here are some tips to help prevent eye injuries in children:

  • Keep sharp objects out of reach: Knives, scissors and other sharp objects can cause serious eye injuries if they are mishandled. They must be kept away from children’s reach.

  • Make sure children use appropriate eye protection: When participating in sports or other activities where there is a risk of being hit in the face,  children should be made to wear protective eyewear.

  • Children should not have access to chemicals: Household cleaners and other chemicals can cause serious eye irritation if they come into contact with the eyes. Be sure to keep all chemicals properly labelled and out of reach of children.

    4. When to see an eye doctor?

When it comes to eye injuries in children, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even seemingly minor injuries can lead to serious complications if they are not treated promptly. Here are some signs that indicate your child’s eye injury is an emergency:

  • There is a foreign object embedded in the eye
  • The pupil is enlarged or not reacting to light
  • There is severe pain or swelling
  • There is bleeding from the eye
  • There is a change in vision

Looking for the best paediatric ophthalmologist in Kolkata?

If you live in Kolkata and searching the internet with the phrases such as “paediatric eye doctor near me” or “paediatric ophthalmologist near me”, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have a dedicated paediatric ophthalmology unit that is highly specialised and we have an advanced eye care facility offering expert diagnosis and treatment for ophthalmic problems in children. Our paediatric ophthalmologists deal with various diseases such as paediatric cataracts, paediatric strabismus, adult strabismus, amblyopia, retinopathy of prematurity and paediatric glaucoma. Find the nearest branch and book an appointment. 

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What are the most common eye surgeries?

 

eye surgeons near me

There are different types of eye surgeries that are performed to treat various eye conditions  An ophthalmologist performs eye surgery and in most types of eye surgery, topical anesthesia is administered to relax the patients and prevent them from feeling any pain. Here are some common eye surgeries: 

1. Cataract surgery:

Cataract surgery is a procedure to remove the natural lens of the eye and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens. Cataracts usually develop slowly and can happen in both eyes. People of any age can get cataracts, but they are much more common in older adults. There are three types of cataract surgery :  

  • Phacoemulsification with foldable IOL implantation 
  • Manual small incision cataract surgery 
  • Laser Cataract Surgery

2. Glaucoma surgery:

Glaucoma is a condition that affects the optic nerve and it is usually caused by an increase in pressure within the eye. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to progressive vision loss and even blindness. While there is no cure for glaucoma, surgery can help to decrease the pressure within the eye and improve symptoms. Glaucoma treatment involves medication. However, laser treatment and surgery is recommended to reduce the intraocular pressure. 

  • Trabeculectomy: It is a type of glaucoma surgery that is done to create a new path for fluid to drain.
  • Glaucoma drainage device implantation: A glaucoma drainage implant is a small device placed in the eye. It allows the fluid to drain out, lowering the eye pressure.
     3. Diabetic retinopathy surgery:

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that leads to abnormal growth of blood vessels that damages the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Surgery is performed when the condition is severe. The goal of the surgery is to prevent or delay vision loss by improving blood flow to the retina and preventing new blood vessels from forming.

4. Cornea transplant:

A cornea transplant is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy one. A corneal transplant is recommended if the person has keratoconus or another condition that causes the cornea to become thinner. A cornea transplant can help restore vision but some people may still need to wear prescription glasses or corrective lenses afterward.

5. LASIK surgery:

LASIK surgery involves using a laser to reshape the cornea, which is the clear tissue at the front of the eye. LASIK eye surgery is done to correct refractive errors such as 

myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism. LASIK surgery gives many patients freedom from eyeglasses and contact lenses. 

Looking for an eye surgeon?

If you are searching for an eye surgeon on the internet with the phrases “eye surgeons near me” or “best eye surgeon near me”, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. Our eye surgeons have performed over 10,00,000 successful surgeries. We offer expert diagnosis, treatment and surgical procedures for cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, corneal problems, and refractive errors. Find the nearest branch and call to book an appointment.

 

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Can Glaucoma Cause Blindness?

eye surgeon
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. This nerve is responsible for sending signals from the eye to the brain, and it forms the visual pathway. When the optic nerve is damaged, blind spots form in the vision. If you and your family member have been diagnosed with glaucoma, you may have many questions in your mind. Can glaucoma cause blindness or can glaucoma be reversed? These are some of the common questions that people ask an eye surgeon.  Here we share some useful insights on glaucoma

1. Untreated glaucoma can lead to blindness 

Glaucoma is a debilitating eye condition that can cause blindness if treatment is not sought. However, with modern treatment, glaucoma can be controlled and vision loss can be prevented or slowed down.

2. Glaucoma is caused due to clogged eye drainage canals 

The most common type of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma which occurs when the eye’s drainage system becomes clogged, causing an increase in intraocular pressure. This pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.

3. An eye injury can also lead to glaucoma

Angle recession glaucoma is a type of glaucoma that can develop after an injury, or trauma, to the eye. Although it can’t be cured, treatments can prevent loss of vision.

4. Types of glaucoma:

The different types of glaucoma are as follows:

  • Primary Open Angle Glaucoma: (POAG): POAG is the more common type of glaucoma, and it typically affects adults over the age of 40. POAG develops slowly, and it can be difficult to detect in its early stages. However, if left untreated, POAG can lead to severe vision loss or even blindness. There are several risk factors for POAG, including age, family history, and high intraocular pressure.

  • Angle Closure Glaucoma (ACG): Angle Closure Glaucoma is a type of glaucoma where the angle between the iris and the cornea is too narrow. This prevents the normal flow of fluids out of the eye, which leads to an increase in intraocular pressure.

  • Congenital glaucoma: Congenital glaucoma condition is present at birth and it usually affects both eyes. In most cases, congenital glaucoma is caused by a malformation of the eye, which prevents the normal drainage of fluid. This buildup of fluid puts pressure on the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss. Treatment for congenital glaucoma typically involves surgery to improve the drainage of fluid from the eye. In some cases, this surgery can prevent complete loss of vision. 

    5. Glaucoma is difficult to detect

There are no warning signs for many forms of glaucoma. Symptoms appear when the condition has reached an advanced stage. Symptoms of glaucoma are: 

  • Eye pain
  • Severe headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Eye redness
  • Halos around lights

    6. Regular comprehensive eye exams can help detect glaucoma in its early stages

As glaucoma has no early warning signs, it is important to go for regular eye checkups. An eye doctor or an eye surgeon may suggest following tests:  

  • Visual acuity test: This eye chart test measures how well the eyes can see from a certain distance.

  • Visual field test: This test measures peripheral vision.

  • Tonometry: It is the measurement of the pressure inside the eye using an instrument.

  • Pupil dilation: The eye doctor puts dilation drops in the eyes to widen the pupils. After dilation, the eye doctor helps to know the internal health of the eyes.

  • Imaging tests: These may include photos of the inside of your eye and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Looking for an eye surgeon for glaucoma?

Disha Eye Hospitals is one of the reputed eye hospitals in Kolkata offering glaucoma treatment. We have different types of eye surgeons who have extensive clinical and surgical expertise. They are well-versed with the latest techniques of laser treatment and surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage device implantation. To see an eye surgeon, visit the nearest branch. 

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What Questions Should Diabetics Ask Their Eye Specialists?

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Diabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are too high. The medical condition affects multiple organs of your body and your eyes are no exception. The high blood glucose levels make the lens of the eyes swell, thus affecting the vision. If you or any of your family members are diabetic, here are some questions you should ask your eye specialists:

Question 1: Which eye problem is most associated with diabetes?

Anyone with type 1, type 2, or even gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant) is at the risk of developing:

● Diabetic retinopathy
● Cataracts
● Macular edema
● Glaucoma

These eye problems are also called diabetic eye disease, an umbrella term used for a group of diabetes-related diseases that affect your vision.

Question 2: How long does it take for diabetes to damage eyes?

Well, how quickly or slowly diabetes affects the eyes varies from one person to another. It usually takes between 5 to 10 years to develop a diabetic eye disease. The more uncontrolled the diabetes is, the faster the damage will be.

Question 3: What are the warning signs of diabetic retinopathy?

The warning signs of diabetic retinopathy include:

● Spots or dark strings floating in your vision
● Fluctuating vision
● Blurred vision
● Dark or empty areas in your vision

Diabetes in general can cause blurry vision.

Question 4: How often should I get an eye exam?

Even if you see a diabetologist regularly, it is important to get an eye exam at least once a year. If diabetes is not under control, you may have to see your eye specialist more frequently. If you are 60 or above, it is better to get your eyes examined twice every year.

Question 5: Can I get laser eye surgery?

Laser eye surgery is considered safe if you are diabetic as long as the blood sugar levels are under control and the condition has not yet affected the eyes. Your eye ophthalmologist is the best person to tell you whether you can undergo laser eye surgery or not.

Question 6: Can diabetics have eye surgery?

Yes, you can undergo eye surgery, if required. However, it depends on the eye condition that you are suffering from and any other medical condition that you may have. In certain cases, you may have to wait until your sugar levels are under control.

Question 7: Before eye surgery, is it necessary to keep my sugar levels under control?

Yes, it is important to keep your sugar levels under control. High sugar levels increase the risk of:

● Infection
● Slow healing
● Heart problems

Your eye specialist and diabetologist can suggest an appropriate course of treatment to control diabetes.

Question 8: Before eye surgery, is there any need to fast?

Whether you have diabetes or not, before any eye surgery, you will need to fast for about 12 hours.
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Question 9: Before eye surgery, do I need to stop taking medicines for diabetes?

If you take medicines for diabetes, talk to an eye specialist about stopping it. Generally, it should be stopped 48 hours before and 48 hours after surgery to reduce complications. Do tell your eye specialist about all the medications, including supplements, that you are taking. The eye specialist will tell you which one to continue and which one to stop.

Question 10: How do I prepare for eye surgery if I have diabetes?
One of the best ways to prepare for eye surgery is to simply follow your eye specialist’s instructions. Remember, the outcomes of the eye surgery will be better if your sugar levels are under control.

Looking for an eye specialist in Barrackpore?

As a leading eye hospital in West Bengal, we have branches all over the state including Barrackpore. We have some of the best eye specialists in Barrackpore on board. Our doctors have extensive clinical and surgical expertise. If you are experiencing any eye-related problems, visit the nearest branch or book an online consultation.