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10 Things to Know about Photophobia

Most eye complications give off signals when they occur and start worsening. Photophobia is one of the major signals among other symptoms such as eye redness and eye pain. It causes the eyes to become sensitive to light.

If the onset of an eye complication has caused photophobia to develop in your eyes, you will experience discomfort and pain when looking at bright light sources. It’s crucial to get your eyes screened for the eye complication that has caused the symptom to occur.

As one of the top eye hospitals in Kolkata, we, at Disha Eye Hospitals, provide quality and affordable treatment for a number of eye complications. Our team of eye doctors use advanced diagnostic procedures to get a precise diagnosis of your eye complication and choose the right treatment options. Book an appointment online at http://www.dishaeye.org/organic/ .

Here’s what worth knowing about photophobia

1) Photophobia is a common symptom of migraine

Migraine is one of the common causes of light sensitivity. In fact, bright light sources such as the sun and fluorescent light bulbs are some of the biggest triggers in many migraine cases. If you have a migraine, it’s best to avoid direct exposure to bright light sources. Also, if you are experiencing a migraine attack, shift to a dark and cool room to relieve the pain.

2) A symptom of age-related eye complications

Photophobia is one of the primary symptoms of serious age-related eye complications, including Age-related Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, and Glaucoma. As these age-related eye complications progress, your photophobia can worsen to cause hypersensitivity to light.

3) Common in people with mental health disorders

People with mental health are more prone to having photophobia. You may stand at a risk of light sensitivity, if you are suffering from any of the mental health problems like depression, anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and bipolar disorder. Learn more at https://www.woodbourneanimalclinic.com/xanax-alprazolam.

4) Photophobia is linked with brain disorders

People with mental health are more prone to having photophobia. You may stand at a risk of light sensitivity if you are suffering from any of the mental health problems like depression, anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and bipolar disorder.

5) Certain medicines can cause photophobia

Photophobia can occur as a result of using certain medicines such as Quinine (Qualaquin), Furosemide, Tetracycline, Belladonna, and Antibiotics. It’s important to consult with an eye doctor if you are taking any of these medicines and experiencing sensitivity to light.

6) Manage photophobia the easy way

If you have light sensitivity, one simple way to deal with it is to wear a pair of eyeglasses with photochromic lenses. This type of lens is designed to automatically darken when exposed to bright light. Also, wearing a wide-brimmed hat is helpful in blocking more light when spending time outdoors.

7) Photophobia can occur in one or both eyes

Yes, you read it right. Light sensitivity can occur in one or both eyes. As mentioned above, photophobia occurs as a symptom of several eye complications such as Cataracts, Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy, Age-related Macular Degeneration, and Uveitis. These eye complications can occur in one or both eyes.

8) Eye injuries are a major cause

Physical eye injuries such as Corneal Abrasion (also called Scratched Cornea), Traumatic Iritis, and Hyphema are leading causes of light sensitivity. Physical eye injuries are medical emergencies. If you meet with an accident that injures your eyes, make sure to immediately consult with an eye doctor to reduce the risk of complications such as infections and vision impairment.

9) Photophobia can occur from eye infections

Light sensitivity is one of the primary symptoms of a number of serious eye infections such as Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye), Fungal Keratitis, Trachoma, Acanthamoeba Keratitis, Endophthalmitis, and Viral Keratitis.

10) Treatment for photophobia

In most cases, photophobia disappears after the underlying cause is treated or managed. For example, if your refraction error is causing light sensitivity, correcting it can cause the symptom to disappear, or at the least, lower in intensity.

We provide advanced refractive error correction treatment options, including LASIK eye surgery. Learn more at http://www.dishaeye.org/lasik-refractive-surgery.

Ensure good eye health for yourself and your loved ones at Disha Eye Hospitals

At Disha Eye Hospitals, we are aimed at providing high-quality and affordable eye care using advanced diagnostic and treatment procedures. Our biggest focus is to make it possible for people from all walks of life to have access to high-quality eye care through affordable eye treatment prices.

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What are the Differences Between eye Screening and a Comprehensive Eye Examination?

It goes without saying that the eyes are a complex organ, and so are the complications associated with them.  Therefore, confirming the presence of different eye complications requires different types of diagnostic procedures.

Consult with the best eye doctors in Kolkata to keep your eyes healthy

Get you eyes checked at Disha Eye Hospitals. We have some of the best eye specialists in Kolkata . They can detect the presence of problems in your eyes with the advanced technology-led diagnostic procedures. They specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of various eye diseases. An early diagnosis can reduce the risk of worsening of your eye complication. Book your appointment with one of our eye specialists online at http://www.dishaeye.org/organic/.

When visiting an eye doctor, many are confused between eye screening and comprehensive eye examination. If you too are confused, these key differences between the two should give you a clear picture:

1) Eye screening:–

Eye screening (also known as eye test) is a basic, brief eye examination. Eye screening is primarily done in order to look for a particular eye problem. Eye doctors perform eye screening to detect the presence of common vision problems (refractive errors), including Hyperopia (farsightedness), Myopia (nearsightedness), and Astigmatism.

After detecting the presence of a particular vision problem, eye doctors refer patients to eye care specialists (ophthalmologists) for in-depth diagnosis and treatment. In children, eye screening is done to look for two common childhood eye conditions, Strabismus and Amblyopia (aka Lazy Eye). It’s a must to take children for eye screening every year.

2) Comprehensive eye examination:-

A comprehensive eye examination can be classified as a detailed eye exam. It is done to get a full evaluation of your vision and overall eye health.  A comprehensive eye examination can last up to an hour or more as there are a number of eye tests that are performed. These include:

What are the differences Between eye screening and a Comprehensive Eye Examination

  • Visual acuity test

Ophthalmologists usually perform a visual acuity test as the first test during a comprehensive eye examination. Visual acuity test involves measuring the sharpness of the vision through an eye chart. Ophthalmologists measure distant and near vision by changing the distance of the eye chart.

  • Refraction test:-

After detecting the refraction error (if there’s any), the ophthalmologist will perform a refraction test in order to accurately determine the eyeglass prescription. Ophthalmologists use an instrument called a phoropter to determine the exact lens power as per the level of refraction error. The ophthalmologist depends upon the feedback of the patient in order to fine-tune the lens power.

  • Slit lamp exam:-

Slit lamp exam is one of the important eye tests performed during a comprehensive eye exam. It is done to detect the presence of complex and serious eye complications such as Diabetic Retinopathy, Corneal Ulcers, Cataracts, Glaucoma, and Macular Degeneration. The eye test involves examining different parts of the eyes under high magnification using an upright microscope. An ophthalmologist checks the lens, conjunctiva, cornea, and iris.

  • Eye movement test:-

Eye movement test, as the name suggests, is done to determine the coordination of both eyes. An ophthalmologist instructs patients to follow a particular object, like a light source, to determine how well can both eyes follow. Improper eye movement can indicate the presence of strabismus; improper eye movement also increases the risk of developing double vision.

  • Pupil dilation test:-

In order to get a better diagnosis of some eye complications like Diabetic Retinopathy, ophthalmologists dilate the pupils in order to get a better view of the affected eye’s internal structures. Ophthalmologists commonly use a dilating eye drop. The eye doctor will shine a bright light into the dilated pupil to see the eyes’ internal structures more clearly.

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, are committed to preserving your eyesight. From diagnosis to treatment, our best retina specialists in Kolkata look forward to serving your retinal health care needs.

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8 Common Signs of Vision Problems

Are you suffering from severe or sudden eye pain? Are you having a blurred or hazy vision? If yes, then you may ignore these signs as they may indicate that you have vision problems. Many people often live with poor vision without realising that they would benefit from vision correction. By putting off a visit to the doctor, you are putting your vision at risk. As soon as you notice any change in your vision or your eyes are paining, it’s time to see an eye doctor. Just like an annual physical examination, it’s equally important to have regular eye examinations. If you are suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure and have a family history of eye diseases, then you should get your eyes checked twice in a year.

Book an appointment online with the best eye doctors in Kolkata to keep your eyes healthy

If you are suffering from dizziness and headaches, don’t ignore them. Consult the best eye doctors in Kolkata at Disha Eye Hospitals, to know if the symptoms you are experiencing are not signs of underlying eye diseases. It is advisable to get your eyes checked at least once a year. To book an appointment online with the best eye doctors in Kolkata, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/contact-us.  You can also book an appointment through WhatsApp (9433311111).

8 common signs of vision problems

Here are a few common signs of vision problems that you must watch out for:

  1. Blurred vision: If you are you finding it difficult to get a clear view, then you must visit an eye doctor. The blurred vision can be a sign of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Prescription glasses can help you see better. However, sudden blurriness is a cause of concern. It can be a sign of underlying eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma that show symptoms only after the diseases have advanced.

  2. Pain in the eye: Often people experience pain in the eye. In some cases, it can be harmless as it can be due to tiredness. In some cases, it’s an indication of problems like corneal abrasion, conjunctivitis, and dry eyes. All these can be cured with the right treatment. However, eye pain caused due to glaucoma and optic neuritis should not be ignored.

  3. Difficulty seeing at night: If you are not comfortable driving at night or you need extra light to read at night, let your doctor know about this. Difficulty seeing at night can be caused by a variety of reasons. From sun exposure to cataracts, a wide range of issues can make it hard to see at night.

  4. Frequent headaches: Frequent headaches: A headache can sometimes be a sign that your vision is changing. Eye strain, farsightedness and Presbyopia can cause severe headache or frequent headaches. Therefore, recurring headaches should always be taken seriously.

  5. Double vision: Double vision can happen for many reasons. While drinking too much alcohol can also cause short-term double vision,  double vision that keeps coming back is of grave concern. Cataract, corneal irregularities and eye conditions can cause double vision.

  6. Eye fatigue: Spending too much time on a computer, smartphone, or game console can cause eye fatigue, also called digital eye strain. This quite common among adults and children who spend a lot of time either working on a computer and other digital devices.

  7. Seeing halos and glare: If you are seeing halos and glares, then you must see a doctor at the earliest. Halos and glares indicate that vision problems are preventing light from correctly on the retina.

  8. Floaters and specks: It’s common to see floaters and specks when you are exposed to too much sunlight and you suddenly enter a dark place. However, if you frequently see floaters and specks especially on blank surfaces like a white wall or the sky, then it may be a symptom of a vision problem.

If you fear that you have an eye problem, schedule an eye exam with us as soon as you can. At Disha Eye Hospitals, we have highly experienced ophthalmologists who can help you with the right treatment for different kinds of eye problems. Disha Eye Hospitals are the best for cataract surgery in Kolkata. To know more about us, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/.

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What Is Corneal Laceration? And its Symptoms

What Is Corneal Laceration? And its Symptoms

Corneas are our front window to the world of vision. Any damage to them can be not just uncomfortable but can also cause loss of vision, if left untreated for long. A corneal laceration is one such issue that should not be taken lightly. Corneal laceration occurs when something hits the eye with a significant force like a ball or metallic rod, causing a cut on the cornea. Corneal lacerations are typically caused by tree branches, metallic objects or some sharp objects. One can prevent such accidents by wearing protective eyewear, especially while working in the garden or playing a sport.

What Is Corneal Laceration And its Symptoms

How is corneal laceration different from corneal abrasion?

Though corneal abrasion and corneal laceration sound similar, on a closer look you will find that the two are different. Corneal abrasions are usually caused by minor accidents like scratches caused by fingernails or contact lenses or when foreign objects like dirt, sand, or sawdust get stuck in your eyes. If you rub your eyes too vigorously, you may cause corneal abrasions. However, a corneal laceration is an actual cut and not just a scratch on the cornea. It is deeper than corneal abrasion and requires immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of corneal laceration:-

  • You will feel severe pain and will have a sensation that something is in your eyes
  • The injury will make your eyes teary
  • You may also find notice blood in the eye. This depends upon the nature of the injury
  • You may suddenly experience blurred vision or decreased vision
  • You may also find natural or artificial light too harsh

Diagnosis:-

If you think you have symptoms of a corneal laceration, then you must see an ophthalmologist on an urgent basis. After a complete eye examination, your ophthalmologist can tell you the severity of the injury. For a complete eye examination, your ophthalmologist may put numbing eye drops so that your eyes can remain open during the examination. Depending upon whether it’s a partial thickness or full thickness laceration, the doctor will suggest the course of action.

Book appointment online with the best eye doctors in Kolkata

If you notice any symptoms of corneal laceration, consult the best eye doctor in Kolkata at Disha Eye Hospitals. We are committed to providing right eye care solutions at an affordable cost. To book an appointment online with the best eye doctors in Kolkata, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/contact-us.  You can also book an appointment through WhatsApp (9433311111).

What should you do?

If you think you have corneal laceration, you must immediately seek medical help. A corneal laceration is a serious injury that should not be ignored as it can lead to loss of vision. However, by the time you reach the eye hospital make sure you don’t aggravate your injury:

  • Cover your eyes with an eye shield or a pair of sunglasses
  • Do not rinse your eyes with water. The foreign object that may be in your eyes may go further, causing more damage
  • If you think something is stuck in your eyes, do not try to remove it on your own
  • Do not apply pressure on your eyes with your hands as this can make the injury worse
  • Don’t take any painkillers such as ibuprofen, aspirin or other non-steroidal drugs. These medicines cause the blood to thin and may increase your bleeding.
  • See an eye doctor at the earliest.

Treatment:-

Usually, surgery is done to treat a corneal laceration. The doctor will close the cut where the object struck and remove any foreign object that is still stuck in the eye. The doctor may also recommend some medications and some eye drops to ensure that there’s no infection. You may be advised to wear a patch for a few days. If your injury is severe then the doctor may recommend several surgeries.

Followup:-

Often a corneal laceration puts you at a higher risk of developing other eye complications like retinal detachment and thus it’s very crucial that you follow up with your eye doctor.

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Condition Called Watery Eyes. Causes & When to See a Doctor

If your eyes are watering for reasons other than an emotional film, then do not to ignore this condition. There can be several possible reasons for eyes to water. Eyes produce tears to keep them lubricated. However, if your eyes are constantly watering, it can not just be irritating and troublesome, but it can also be a sign of an underlying eye condition or disease. Visiting a doctor is the best way to know what is causing your eyes to produce excessive tears.

Get your eyes checked — Book an appointment online

There could be several reasons for eyes to water and several eye conditions have similar symptoms. The best to figure out what is causing your eyes to water is the diagnosis. Consult best eye specialists at Disha Eye Hospitals, one of the top eye hospitals in Kolkata. Our eye specialists help you figure out what’s causing excess tears and the best ways to treat them. To book an appointment online, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/contact-us. You can also book an appointment through WhatsApp (9433311111).

Condition called watery eyes. Causes & when to see a doctor

Here are a few eye conditions that cause your eyes to water:

1. Allergies: A lot of people are allergic to pollen, pet dander, and fumes. These allergens can cause your eyes to turn red, itchy, and make them watery. The best way to avoid this problem is to avoid allergens. However, if you are exposed to one, then you must see an eye specialist in Kolkata who can suggest you the over-the-counter medications to relieve you of watery eyes.

2. Pink eye/conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is an inflammatory condition that makes the eyes look reddish pink. Though it is highly contagious, it is rarely dangerous. Along with redness in the eye, the condition makes the eyes water; and inner eyelids may appear to be red and your vision may be blurry. Thick yellow mucus may also accumulate around the eyelashes. Though the condition runs its course, an eye doctor may prescribe you some eye drops and medications to relieve you of some pain and prevent the spread of infection.

3. Blocked tear ducts: Your eyes have ducts that help in draining out the tears. It is like eyes have very own drainage system. However, when these ducts are blocked, your eyes get watery, causing irritation. Along with water, your eyes may also release some mucus. You may also experience blurred vision. An eye doctor may recommend antibiotic teardrop or ointment to clean your tear ducts. In serious cases, surgery is suggested. The doctor will flush the duct with saline and use tiny tubes to open up blockages.

4. Dry eye syndrome: It may sound strange but dry eye syndrome does cause eyes to water. Dry eye syndrome prompts your eyes to produce tears. This overwhelms the eye’s natural drainage system, forcing it to produce excessive tears, making your eyes watery. Your eye doctor can recommend you over-the-counter medications from https://livingwellnessmedicalcenter.com/ativan-lorazepam/ to lubricate your eyes. By reducing your screen time, you can let your eyes naturally lubricate themselves. Besides, screen time, age is another factor that can lead to dry eye syndrome.

5. Problem with your eyelids: Your eyelids are part of your eyes’ drainage system and whenever you blink it helps to moisten your eyes. This process helps draining out the debris and mucus, However, sometimes eyelids grow inwards. This causes them to brush against your eyes, leading to watery eyes. In some cases, your doctor may just recommend medications and in some cases, minor surgery can be performed to fix ingrown eyelids.

Book an appointment at Disha Eye Hospitals — One of the top eye hospitals in Kolkata, we take care of all sorts of eye conditions and diseases. To know more about us, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/. We are committed to providing quality eye treatment at affordable prices.

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Common Retinal Diseases and Their Symptoms

Mr. Ghosh of Kolkata was seeing floating specks. He thought this will go away on its own but in a few weeks, the number of black spots increased. Eventually, he developed a cloudy area is his vision field. On his family’s insistence, he went to see an ophthalmologist. After consulting the doctor, he was diagnosed with Diabetic Retinopathy. He realised the gravity of the situation. If he hadn’t gone to the doctor for long, he would have lost his vision.

There are several types of retinal diseases and they can be caused due to ageing, diabetes or other health factors. Usually, most of the retinal diseases show visual symptoms. The retina is the layer of tissue that helps in sending images to your brain. Anything that affects your retina will affect your vision.

Common retinal diseases and their symptoms

If left unattended for long, a retinal disease can lead to loss of vision. How would you know that you have a retinal disease? An eye specialist can do the diagnosis and look for signs of retinal disorders.

Looking for the best eye specialists in Kolkata?

If you are looking for one of the best eye specialists in Kolkata, then visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, are committed to providing quality care at affordable cost. We have the best retina specialists in Kolkata who can diagnose retinal and vitreous diseases through a comprehensive eye examination. If you want to know more about retinal disorders, or if you would like to set up an eye exam, book an appointment online at http://www.dishaeye.org/contact-us. You can also book an appointment through WhatsApp (9433311111).

Here are common retinal diseases and their symptoms:

1. Floaters: If you notice spots, grey specks or cobwebs in your vision, then you have eye floaters. As we age, jelly-like substance in eyes become liquid and this casts a shadow on the retina. However, floaters can also be caused if the retina is torn. If the torn retina is not fixed, this can lead to retinal detachment.  An ophthalmologist may suggest surgery to make the spots less noticeable. However, surgery can remove some of the floaters but not all.

Symptoms:

  • Dark grey specks or transparent strings may appear in the vision
  • Spots float ie when you move your eyes, the spots too move quickly
  • Spots become noticeable when you look at plain backgrounds like a white wall or the sky

    2. Macular degeneration:      As you age, the centre of your retina starts to deteriorate, this affects your central vision, making it difficult for you to see things in a straight line. There’s no cure for macular degeneration but there are options to slow down its progression. Early diagnosis of macular degeneration can help minimise vision loss.

Symptoms:

  • Trouble in identifying faces
  • Straight lines may appear distorted
  • Need for bright light for doing daily activities
  • Blurry vision

3. Diabetic retinopathy:  Diabetes often causes tiny blood vessels to swell up. These blood vessels can burst and leak fluid, distorting or blurring vision. Depending upon the type of diabetes you have, new blood vessels may grow, furthering causing more damage to the retina. With a comprehensive dilated eye test, an ophthalmologist will be able to diagnose the disease. If you have diabetes, then you should go for a comprehensive test every year. You can prevent diabetic retinopathy from getting worse by keeping your blood pressure and diabetes under control. An eye doctor will suggest a laser surgery that will destroy leaking blood vessels.

Symptoms:

  • You will find it difficult to see while driving and reading
  • Difficulty in identifying colours
  • Vision may seem blurred
  • Black spots may appear
    4. Retinal detachment:     Retinal detachment happens when the retina separates from the back of your eyes, this can cause loss of vision either partially or fully. It is an emergency situation that requires you to immediately consult an eye specialist. Though retinal detachment is painless, there can some warning signs before the disease occurs or advances. Surgery is usually necessary to repair the detached retina. Retinal detachment can be caused by an inflammatory disorder or cancer behind your retina.
    Symptoms:-
  • Blurred vision
  • Partial vision loss, especially peripheral vision
  • Sudden appearance of floaters or flashes

If you are in Kolkata and experience eye problem, visit Disha Eye Hospitals – the best eye care hospital in Kolkata. To know more about us, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/.

 

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Top Causes of Eye Pain

Experiencing pain in the eyes, at times, is common for everybody. However, if the pain persists, it is signalling trouble. Apart from physical eye injuries such as black eye (eye swelling) and corneal abrasion, there are tons of eye complications that have eye pain as a symptom.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your eyes, do not ignore it and instead seek medical help. You can consult with one of our eye specialists at Disha Eye Hospital, a renowned eye hospital in West Bengal. Book an appointment online at http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment.

Top causes of eye pain

Here are some of the eye complications that cause eye pain:

1) Dry eyes: Dry eyes is one of the most common causes of eye pain. The eye condition occurs when there’s a lack of sufficient or quality lubrication in the eyes due to decreased tear production. In some people, the condition occurs when there’s an imbalance in the tear makeup or increased tear evaporation.

Apart from eye pain, foreign sensation in the eyes, blurred vision and eye tiredness are some of the other symptoms of dry eyes. Some of the common risk factors of the eye complication include lack of sufficient nutrition in diet, wearing contact lenses, using electronic gadgets (phone, laptops, TVs) for long periods, and aging. Eye drops and nutritional supplements are two common treatment options for dry eyes.

2) Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a serious eye complication that causes eye pain as one of its symptoms. Glaucoma occurs when the pressure in the eye increases due to the build-up of fluid in the anterior chamber. If left uncontrolled, the increased eye pressure can cause damage to the optic nerve. This, in turn, can lead to loss of vision. Some of the biggest risk factors of Glaucoma include diabetes, trauma to the eyes, being at the age of 40 or older, and family history of the eye complication. The two common treatment options, eye drops and surgery, are aimed at lowering eye pressure.

3) Abrasions: Accidental injuries to the eyes also cause eye pain; abrasions caused by foreign objects are the most common types of eye injuries. Eye makeup applicators, contact lenses, fingernails, jagged objects/toys, and particles from the wind are the common factors that cause abrasion to the cornea. Although the cornea can heal itself, it is crucial to seek professional treatment to lower the risk of eye infections. It is not possible to entirely prevent corneal abrasion. However, you can lower the risks by taking measures such as wearing protective eyewear when working in a workshop and playing outdoor sports.

4) Endophthalmitis: Endophthalmitis is a severe inflammation inside the eyes caused by an infection. There are two types of endophthalmitis, exogenous endophthalmitis, and endogenous endophthalmitis. Exogenous endophthalmitis results when cuts to the eye from an external source cause infection. On the other hand, endogenous endophthalmitis occurs when infection from another part of the body travels to the eyes. Some of the common symptoms of eye complication include eye pain, eye redness, & swollen eyelids.

5) Uveitis: Uveitis occurs when there’s inflammation in the pigmented lining of the eye. The inflammation can result from an autoimmune disorder, an injury, or an infection. Eye pain, loss of vision, and eye redness are some of the common symptoms of the eye complication. If left untreated, Uveitis can cause permanent damage to the eyes and lead to vision impairment. Eye drops, drugs, and surgery are three treatment options for Uveitis.

Maintain good eye health with Disha Eye Hospital

We are committed to ensuring good eye health for everybody through our quality and affordable eye care services. We offer treatment for Glaucoma, Cataracts, Uveitis, and Diabetic retinopathy in Kolkata.

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Do Carrots Really Improve Eyesight?

We have been told since childhood that eating carrots improves our vision. But is it true that eating the root vegetable will do wonders to our eyes?

The notion that eating carrots improve vision dates back to World War II when the British Air Force gunned down German aircraft in the dead of night. It is believed that the British Air Force popularised the carrot myth to keep its radar technology a secret.

Do carrots really improve eyesight?

1. Carrots are good for the eyes: There’s no doubt that carrots are indeed good for the eyes as it contains beta carotene. The body uses beta carotene to make Vitamin A which are antioxidant compounds essential to good vision. According to the World Health Organisation, Vitamin A deficiency is one of the most common causes of preventable blindness in children.

2. Eating carrots alone will not help you maintain overall good eye health: Although carrots are a rich source of beta carotene, relying only on the root vegetable will not help you maintain good overall eye health. A randomised trial of US physicians found out that long-term intake of beta carotene did not decrease or increase the risk of Age-related Macular Degeneration.

3. Combine carrots with other nutritional vegetables and fruits in your diet: The best way to ensure good eye health for yourself and your loved ones is to eat a diet that contains all the essential nutrients. Make sure to include fresh vegetables, fruits, farm-fresh eggs, nuts, and lean fish and meat in your diet.

4. Here are some of the food items, apart from carrots, that are beneficial for the eyes:

●Almonds: Almonds are a rich source of Vitamin E which maintains eye tissue health. Apart from being a great source of snack, almonds are also a nutritional addition to breakfast cereal and salads. Soak a handful of almonds in water overnight and consume them in the morning the way you want to.

●Salmon: Salmon is a storehouse of omega-3 fatty acids, or better known as healthy fats. Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to vision development. To get the most out of these healthy fats, include salmon in your meal plan for 2 to 3 days a week.

●Eggs: Eggs are another rich source of Vitamin A; it also contains zinc, zeaxanthin, and lutein, all of which improve eye health. The best part? Eggs are a versatile food item; you can eat them for your breakfast and in your lunch and dinner.

●Oranges: Oranges are loaded with Vitamin C which promotes eye blood vessel health. Eat oranges as snacks, or juice them for breakfast. Adding them to your fruit salad is also a great option.

  • Kale: Kale is hailed as one of the best eye superfoods. The carotenoids, lutein, and zeaxanthin, found in kale promote retina health and vision. You can prepare kale as a side dish or as snack chips.

See through the myth and get your eyes checked every year

Every step you take to improve your eye health goes a long way in maintaining proper vision in the long run. If you notice any changes in your vision and overall eye health, do not neglect it as it can be symptoms of serious eye complications.

Consult with one of our eye specialists at Disha Eye Hospital, one of the best eye hospitals in West Bengal. We provide high-quality and affordable treatment for serious eye complications, including Cataracts, Glaucoma, Corneal diseases, Squint, Uveitis, and Diabetic Retinopathy in Kolkata.

We have a team of experienced eye specialists who are well-versed with leading medical tools and technology. Book an appointment online at http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment.

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Eye Diseases Associated with Smoking

If you smoke, you’re well acquainted with the guilty pleasure of lighting up another cigarette, despite having smoked one a couple of minutes before. But do you know the damage the smoke entering inside your lungs is causing?

Apart from leading to a number of health complications such as lung cancer, constricted blood vessels, strokes, loss of appetite, infertility, etc, smoking also increases the risk of a number of eye diseases which can lead to blindness.

Eye Diseases Associated with Smoking

Book eye check-up online:

Quitting smoking is the best step you can take to reduce the damage the chemicals in cigarette smoke has already done. To further lower the risks of eye complications, make sure to visit an eye doctor every year. Get your eye health diagnosed from one of our eye specialists at Disha Eye Hospital, one of the top eye hospitals in Kolkata. Book your appointment online at http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment.

Here are some of the serious eye diseases associated with smoking:

1.Cataracts: Cataract is one of the most common eye diseases linked to regular smoking. The eye complication occurs when the eye lenses start breaking down and form clumps. Over time, the clumps cloud the lens and obstruct light. This, in turn, leads to vision loss which gradually worsens as the clumps become denser. Smoking causes heavy metals like cadmium to accumulate in the lens and contribute to cataract formation. Also, regular smoking can alter the cells in the eye lenses through oxidation.

Cataracts treatment at Disha Eye Hospital

2.Dry Eyes: People who smoke regularly are at higher risk of developing dry eyes than those who don’t smoke. Also, cigarette smoke is an eye irritant; it worsens dry eyes in smokers as well as in non-smokers. Dry eyes occur when either the tear glands cannot produce sufficient/quality tears for lubrication or when the produced tears get evaporated quickly.


3.Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetic Retinopathy occurs when the blood vessels of the retina get damaged and lead to vision loss. Regular smoking causes blood sugar levels to spike up, especially in people with diabetes. As a result, the increased blood sugar levels cause more damage to the blood vessels and worsen Diabetic Retinopathy. People who have been recently diagnosed with diabetes stand at an increased risk of Diabetic Retinopathy.

Diabetic Retinopathy


4.Uveitis: The onset of Uveitis is commonly linked to regular smoking. The eye complication occurs when the eye’s middle layer, the uvea, gets inflamed. If left untreated, the eye complication can damage the vital structures of the eyes, including the retina and the iris. Smoking speeds up the development of Uveitis. As such, regular smokers stand at an increased risk of the complication than non-smokers.

Uveitis

5.Macular Degeneration: Macular Degeneration is one of the leading causes of central vision loss. The eye complication is more common in smokers than in non-smokers. Macular Degeneration occurs when the macula (a part of the retina) is damaged. Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors of Macular Degeneration.

Macular Degeneration

6.Tips to quit smoking:

Most people struggle to let go of the habit of smoking. However, making small changes to your lifestyle can go a long way in lowering the temptation to light one up. Here are some tips to help you quit the habit:

●Fight your cravings:

Like every other smoker, you may get cravings to smoke at specific times in a day. For eg, most smokers get a strong craving to light one up after a meal. When you get such cravings, try to fight them by eating a healthy snack, drinking water, and talking with somebody.

●Take help:

Do whatever it takes to get help in quitting the habit. Taking therapies and using mobile apps that help kick the butt is a good option.

●Hang out with non-smokers often:

You may tend to smoke frequently when spending time with other smokers. One simple and effective way to reduce smoking and quit eventually is to hang out more with non-smokers.

We at Disha Eye Hospital are committed to providing affordable eye care treatment so that people can have a healthy vision. Our services include LASIK, refractive surgery, cataract, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. To know more about our services, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/.

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Difference Between Cataracts and Glaucoma

Difference between cataracts and glaucoma

Cataracts and Glaucoma are two of the most serious eye complications. Both the degenerative eye diseases occur as the natural part of the aging process and cause vision impairment. However, the eye diseases have stark differences in between them.

Let’s uncover the key differences between these two serious eye complications to get a clear picture: 

1) Symptoms: While symptoms including eye pain and vision blurriness are common in both eye complications, the other symptoms that are different:

Cataracts:

  • Double vision in the single eye
  • Yellowing of colours
  • Clouded vision
  • Appearance of cloudy formation on eyes’ lens area
  • Lowered vision in dimly lit areas

Glaucoma:

  • Seeing coloured rings around lights
  • Sudden disturbances in vision
  • Eye redness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Book an eye test online:

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make sure to seek medical advice. We, at Disha Eye Hospital, have a team of some of the best eye specialists in Kolkata. Book an appointment online at http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment and get a proper diagnosis of your eye health.

2) Causes:- 

The way Cataracts and Glaucoma cause vision loss are completely different from each other, and so are the factors that cause them.

Cataracts: The eye complication occurs when the eye lenses become stiffer, start breaking down, and form clumps as you age. As the eye disease progresses, the clumps become denser and start clouding the lens. This, in turn, obstructs light to completely pass through and reach the retina which results in blurred vision. Cataracts can either develop in one eye or both eyes. In cases where cataracts form in both eyes, the clouding of the lens is not even.

Glaucoma: Glaucoma occurs when the intraocular pressure (IOP) increases above normal levels and damages the optic nerve. The IOP increases when the fluid (aqueous humour) in the front of the eye builds up when it is not drained as properly as it should.

As the IOP increases with time, more damage is done to the optic nerve, which, in turn, leads to gradual vision impairment.

3) Vision loss restoration:-
As discussed above, both the eye diseases cause vision loss. However, vision loss can be restored and reversed only in Cataracts and not in Glaucoma.

Cataract: Cataract surgery, the go-to treatment option for cataracts, involves replacing the clouded lens with an artificial lens. Before the surgery, the doctor takes into account the refractive error of the patient to choose an artificial lens accordingly to correct the vision.

Glaucoma: The goal of treatment options for Glaucoma, including eye drops and surgery, is to reduce and stop vision loss from worsening by lowering IOP. Depending on the severity of your Glaucoma, the eye doctor may start treatment by prescribing eye drops or schedule a surgery.

4) Prevention

Both Cataracts and Glaucoma cannot be entirely prevented. However, you can take certain steps to lower the risks. Some of these include:

  • A healthy and balanced diet:

    Eating healthily is key to maintaining good eye health and lowering the risk of complications. Add green vegetables, colourful fruits, fresh eggs, and lean fish and meat to your diet to make sure you get proper nutrition intake.

  • Regular exercise: 

Exercising regularly helps improve blood circulation in the eyes. Another key benefit of regular exercise is it helps you maintain healthy body weight. Being overweight and obese increases the risk of diabetes which, in turn, can cause a vision-threatening eye disease known as Diabetic Retinopathy.

Consult best retina specialists in Kolkata

If you are suffering from diabetes, you are at an increased risk of Diabetic Retinopathy. Our team of some of the best retina specialists in Kolkata can guide you on taking important steps to lower the risk.