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Protecting Your Eyes In The Workplace: Check These Useful Insights

cataract treatment

Eye-related problems and injuries in the workplace happen more often than you think. They can cause serious complications, leading to temporary or permanent loss of vision. Here we share useful insights on protecting your eyes in the workplace, whether you work  in a hazardous workplace or in an office and when should you rush to an eye hospital : 

If you are working in a hazardous workplace, here are a few useful insights to protect your eyes:

1. What precautions can you take to protect your eyes?

Hazardous working environments can affect your eyes badly. But if precautions are taken from the very first day of your job, hazardous situations can be eliminated. Here are a few tips that you can follow to keep your eyes safe:

    • Be attentive during the training sessions on handling hazardous materials. Listen to each word carefully and if there is any query clear it on the spot. As any doubt can prove to be fatal in the future.
    • Have an idea about how to use first aid fits, and how to handle any emergency eye situation. Keep the eye hospital’s contact number handy.
    • Always follow the procedure mentioned to use the machinery and handle chemicals.
    • Always use the necessary eye shield/ protective eyewear to protect your eye. Avoiding an eye shield may affect the eye badly and can also lead to permanent vision loss in some cases.
    • If there are barriers installed at your workspace, work within them as sometimes flying debris and sand may get into your eyes and injure them.
    • If there is some serious eye issue do not try to treat it by yourself but an eye hospital instead and consult an eye specialist.

2. What should you do if your eyes have been harmed in the workplace?

In case of a cut or eye injury

  • Do not try to remove the object lodged in your eyes. If it is a minor dust particle, ask your fellow worker to remove it.  Also, wash your eyes with cold water immediately.
  • In case of a serious issue, avoid touching, or rubbing your eyes. This will put pressure on your eyes and can make matters worse.
  • Place a clean cloth or a shield over the eyes to protect them from further damage and contact the nearest eye hospital immediately. 

In case of chemical or dust exposure to eyes:

  • Wash your eyes with cold water and try to flush out chemicals out of your eyes.
  • Contact the nearest eye hospital immediately.
  • Once you reach the hospital, tell the eye doctor about the chemical you were handling. So that treatment can be done accordingly.

In case you are hit in the eye or its surrounding area:

    • Do not put any kind of pressure on your eyes or their surrounding area. This may worsen the eye condition.
    • Use ice or cold compress in case of swelling.
    • Immediately contact the nearest and discuss the injury with your eye doctor.

Got an eye injury at your workplace and looking for the best eye treatment in Kolkata? 

Disha Eye Hospitals is among the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata. Our team of doctors have years of experience and are well-trained to handle any eye-related emergency.  From regular eye checkups to cataract treatment, from LASIK to glaucoma treatment, we are a one-stop solution for all eye-related issues. Find the nearest branch to book an appointment.  

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How to Respond to Child Injuries? Useful Insights for Parents

best pediatric ophthalmologist in Kolkata

Kids often injure their eyes while playing. Most eye injuries are minor and can be treated at home but some injuries may need immediate medical attention. Minor injuries could be soap going into the eyes or dirt inside an eye. Major injuries can happen due to a fall or maybe playing during some games such as baseball, basketball, hockey, and kabaddi. As a leading eye hospital in West Bengal, we share useful insights for parents on how to respond to a child with an eye injury and when you should consult paediatric eye doctor:

1. Signs and symptoms of an eye injury:

      •  The child has redness in and around the eyes
      • The child may have a stinging and burning sensation in the eye
      • He or she is experiencing constant watering from the eyes
      • He or she is experiencing sensitivity to light
      • There’s swelling of the eyelid 
      •  The child is experiencing blurred vision
      • There’s discolouration around the eyes of the child.

     

    2. Foreign particles inside the eyes:

If your child complains about some foreign particles such as dirt, small insect and soap inside the eye or experiencing minor irritation, here’s what you can do:

  • First, wash your hands before touching your child’s eye area
  • Ask your child to not rub as it may worsen the situation
  • Flush the eyes with clean water.
  • Pull down the lower lid and gently put water over the eyes, it will bring out the foreign particle from the eyes
  • Again flush the eyes with cold water or put on the cold gel eye mask to provide relief, once the foreign particle is removed

    3. Situations when your child needs to see a paediatric eye doctor
  • If there is something stuck in the eyeball of your child
  • Situations when the eye got hit by a ball or other heavy object
  • Severe irritation in the eyes could be due to some eye infection
  • Visible redness in and around the eyes
  • Experiencing continuous eye pain
  • Swollen eye area
  • If your child is experiencing sudden light sensitivity
  • If your child is experiencing difficulty in seeing objects
  • If your child gets chemicals into the eyes
  • Bleeding or blood clots inside the eyes

In any of the above cases, it is advisable to take your child immediately to the nearest eye hospital for immediate medical care. Parents should not delay as the eyes are one of the most sensitive body parts and need special care.

Here’s a useful read on questions you should ask your child’s eye doctor to make the most out of your appointment. Remember, if your child has no problem in the eyes, even then you must take them for an annual eye examination. 

 If you live in Kolkata and searching the internet with terms such as “ paediatric eye doctor near me”, or “best pediatric ophthalmologist in Kolkata”, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We are among the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata. We have a dedicated paediatric ophthalmology unit. Our paediatric doctors treat paediatric strabismus, paediatric cataracts, amblyopia, retinopathy of prematurity and paediatric glaucoma. Find the nearest branch to book an appointment with our doctors. 

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How to Find the Best Eye Surgeon?

eye surgeons
eye surgeons

This quote rightly emphasises the importance of health. The eyes are one of the most sensitive body parts that require special care and attention. Blurred vision, a halo around the objects, double vision, dry eyes, and eye strain are some of the eye issues that need immediate medical attention from an eye surgeon or a specialist. So, it is essential to choose a good eye surgeon. If you are searching for ‘eye surgeons near me’ and ‘best eye surgeon near me’ on the internet, here are some tips you may find helpful:

  • Check the specialisation: It is best to choose an eye surgeon according to your eye condition. It means you should check the specialisation of the eye doctor you visit. Eye doctors have specialisations in different fields such as cataracts, glaucoma, LASIK, retinal diseases, corneal diseases, and more.
  • Get referrals: Another way of choosing a good eye surgeon is to ask for referrals You can ask your general physician to recommend a good eye surgeon. Or you can also ask your known friends and family members about a good eye surgeon. Another way to find a good reputable eye surgeon is to read online reviews. All this will be quite helpful in shortlisting an eye surgeon. 
  • Research about the eye specialist credentials: Another essential thing is to look at the credentials of the eye surgeon. Mostly you will find information about the eye surgeon’s license, certificates, and education background on the hospital’s website. You can also check about the eye surgeon on the internet to know more. If the eye surgeon has attended any international conferences or attended any special eye camp, you will get the information on the internet.
  • Consider the years of experience of the eye specialist: Along with the credentials, years of experience are another important factor that needs to be considered. Eye surgery is a work of precision and expertise which comes through years of experience.
  • Research about the quality of services offered by the hospital: Always go for a reputed eye hospital as they not only have good eye surgeons but also have good infrastructures such as advanced well-equipped labs, and state-of-art machinery for eye surgeries. They maintain the hygiene standards in the hospital. Not only eye treatments but proper guidance for better eye health is also provided by eye specialists.  

If you are in West Bengal and looking for the best eye surgeon, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We are among the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata with some well-qualified and experienced eye surgeons on board. 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. Find the nearest branch to book an appointment. 

 

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Eye Care Tips for Women

eye specialist in Kolkata

As women tend to live longer than men, they are at greater risk of developing age-related eye conditions. Cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration are all major causes of vision loss in older adults, both men and women. When not treated on time, these conditions could lead to loss of vision. If you are a woman, it is important for you to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect your vision. Here are some eye care tips for you:

1. Go regular eye checkups:  Eye checkups are as important as physical checkups. Even if you don’t wear prescription glasses, you must get your eyes checked especially if you are close to 40. If you have a family history of eye disease, be sure to let your eye specialist know so that no signs of problems are missed. 

2. Get the right nutrition: Eating a varied diet is important for getting the right nutrients for your health. Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts. You can also include 

 certain foods in your diet that boost eye health. Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli are excellent sources of lutein. This antioxidant has been shown to help protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in older adults. Other nutrients that are important for eye health include vitamins C and E, minerals such as zinc and copper and Omega 3 fatty acids. By including these foods in your diet, you can help keep your eyes healthy and reduce your risk of vision problems as you age.

3. Eye care during pregnancy: Pregnancy-related hormonal changes  can also affect vision. Water retention and increased blood circulation can affect the shape of the cornea,  which can lead to temporary changes in vision. Hormonal fluctuations can also cause dry eyes, which may require the use of eye drops. If you are pregnant, it is important to see your eye specialist for a regular checkup. 

 

Note: If you suffer from any pre-existing eye conditions, like glaucoma, high blood pressure or diabetes, it’s very important to tell your eye doctor that you are pregnant. 

4. Wear protective eyewear: Excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to cataracts and eye tumors, so it’s important to wear sunglasses that can block out UV rays. You should also be careful to avoid eye injuries while participating in activities such as sports, swimming, working with sharp tools or cleaning with strong chemicals. Wearing the proper protective eyewear can help reduce the risk of serious eye injuries.

5. Care for contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, it’s important to follow a proper routine for cleaning, removing and replacing them. Poor hygiene or over-wearing lenses can cause corneal scarring, which may lead to loss of vision. To avoid this, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses. Be sure to clean your lenses regularly with a lens solution and replace them as often as recommended by your eye specialist.

6. Be careful with eye makeup: Wearing expired eye makeup can cause a number of eye problems. Perhaps most importantly, though, wearing expired makeup can clog your tear ducts. This can cause a build-up of dirt and debris, which can scratch your cornea or lead to other eye problems. 

Are you looking for an eye specialist in Kolkata?

Our team of eye specialists in Kolkata has extensive clinical and surgical expertise in their respective specialities. We offer expert diagnosis, treatment and surgical procedures for cataracts , cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.  Find the nearest branch and call to book an appointment.

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Questions to Ask Your LASIK Eye Surgeon?

lasik eye surgeon

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis  (LASIK) is one of the most common types of refractive surgeries performed.  It is quite effective in treating nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism and thereby reducing dependence on eyeglasses and contact lenses. During LASIK eye surgery, a cutting laser is used to change the shape of the cornea to improve vision. If you are meeting a LASIK eye surgeon for the initial consultation and wondering what to ask. Here are some questions you must ask to make your LASIK eye surgeon to the most out of your appointment: 

Questions related to LASIK surgery:

  • What is LASIK surgery?
  • How long does it take to complete the LASIK surgery?
  • Will I be given anaesthesia during the surgery?
  • What kind of laser will be used during the surgery?
  • Will it be a painful surgery? 
  • What is the successful rate for LASIK eye surgery?
  • How much pressure will I experience during the LASIK surgery?
  • How much does LASIK cost?

Questions related to pre-surgery arrangements:

  • How can I prepare myself for the day of LASIK surgery?
  • How much time does the pre-arrangement for the surgery take?
  • Should I fast on the day of surgery?
  • Should I bring someone with me or can I come alone?
  • Are there any medicines or eye drops that I need to take before the surgery starts?
  • What are the pre-tests that I need to go through before the LASIK?
  • What eye exam should I go through to know whether I am eligible for LASIK eye surgery or not?

 Questions about after surgery?

  • What precautions should I take post-surgery?
  • Are there any side effects of LASIK surgery? If yes, how can I tackle them?
  • How long does the complete recovery take?
  • How many days should I avoid digital devices?
  • What medicines should I take post-surgery?
  • Will my eyes be completely back to normal after the surgery?
  • Do I need to visit the clinic for follow-ups?

Questions related to lifestyle changes:

  • What kind of diet should I follow to keep my eye healthy after the surgery?
  • Will there be some massive lifestyle changes after the surgery is done?
  • What eye exercises can I include to keep them healthy?
  • How much rest does my eye require after the surgery?
  • What are the ways to provide rest to the eyes?

Looking for an eye hospital that offers the best LASIK surgery in Kolkata? 

You will find some of the best LASIK eye surgeons at Disha Eye Hospitals. We offer the best possible standard of ophthalmic care at an affordable cost. We have the Wavelight Allegretto AG technology for LASIK surgery. The use of this state-of-the-art German technology helps in screening out risk cases.  Besides LASIK, we offer a range of refractive surgeries to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.  We also provide treatment for glaucoma , cataract , diabetic retinopathy , and paediatric squint . We have advanced labs and state-of-art machinery for different eye surgeries. We are a one-stop solution for all your eye-related issues. Visit the nearest branch to consult our LASIK eye surgeon and other eye specialists. 

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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.