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26 Insights curated by a leading eye hospital in West Bengal

Eyes are one of the most vulnerable and complex parts of the human body. Healthy sight lets us see the world, yet many of us take it for granted. It is estimated that  half a million blinding injuries occur every year across the world. Exposure to chemicals, dust, rust, and debris can cause eye injuries, and unfortunately some result in permanent blindness. 

leading eye hospital in West Bengal

As one of the leading eye hospitals in West Bengal, we have curated a list of 26 insightful tips on eye protection:

People working in factories:

1.If you are working in a factory, wear the right protective eye equipment (PPE).

2.There are four primary types of eye protectors: general safety glasses, laser safety glasses, chemical splash goggles, and impact goggles. You should know which ones to use when and how to wear the protectors properly.

Gardening:

1.Never spray insecticides or pesticides when there is a breeze blowing. These chemicals can go into your eyes and cause eye problems that can lead to blindness. 

2.Wear eye-protective goggles while doing any kind of gardening job. Always wear polycarbonate goggles or safety spectacles, which are lightweight, durable, and offer better clarity of vision.

People spending a lot of time under the sun:

3.Always wear sunglasses with ultraviolet protection as UV radiation can damage the structure of the eye.

4,Try to stay in the shade when the UV rays of the sun are at their strongest, usually between 10 am and 4 pm.

5.Always apply sunscreen near your eye area 15-30 minutes before heading out in the sun.

6.Always try to protect your eyes from all angles. Wear sunglasses that wrap all the way around the eye temples.

Working in offices:

7.Your desktop or laptop screen should provide a clear and sharp image.

8.The font size should be suitable for reading.

9.The distance between your eyes and the computer screen should be around 350 – 600 mm for comfortable viewing.

10.The computer screen should be adjustable to tilt according to your needs.

11.Keep blinking intentionally to keep your eyes moisturised.

12.The keyboard should be detachable, so that you can keep changing your postures frequently and also work from a distance.

13.Make sure that your keyboard is non-reflective and clear. You should be able to recognise the signs and alphabets on it easily.

Ways to create a well-illuminated office:

14.Your office should have sufficient lighting. Appropriate lighting prevents eye fatigue and headaches.

15.Minimise glare and reflections by placing the desktop away from a light source or a window.

16.The air supply from the air conditioner should not blow directly into your face or body as it will leave your eyes dry.

Common eye protection tips for all:

17.Take short breaks in between the work to alleviate the eye fatigue caused by prolonged exposure to computer screens.

18.Do eye exercises to comfort your eyes. 

19.Always wash your hands before cleaning your eyes.

20.Do not share your eye towels with others. Never use someone else’s eye drops or their glasses.

21.Give rest to your eyes by getting enough sleep.

22.Always watch the TV screen from the right distance. The ideal TV viewing distance depends upon the size of the television. For instance, it is ideal for you to watch a 40 inch HD TV from a distance of 1.5 meters.

23.Use computers in well-lit places. Keep looking at other places while working to alleviate your eye fatigue.

24.Wear goggles when cleaning dusty areas.

25.Make sure that you have sufficient artificial or natural light while studying.

26.Consult an eye doctor whenever you notice discomfort or problem with your vision.

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Angle Recession Glaucoma: check out these insights curated by some of the best doctors in Kolkata

 

Angle Recession Glaucoma develops after an injury or trauma to the eye. In this type of glaucoma, the tissue in the eye’s angle is damaged, resulting in elevated pressure within the eye. This elevated eye pressure eventually damages the optic nerve resulting in angle recession glaucoma. Though this condition cannot be cured, there are many treatment options available to prevent loss of vision, if the condition is diagnosed early. Glaucoma can cause irreversible damage to your vision. Here are useful insights curated by some of the best eye doctors in Kolkata on angle recession glaucoma and what can be done to treat the condition: 

Glaucoma

 

Insight 1: An eye injury can lead to angle recession glaucoma 

When the eyes are healthy, clear fluid in them flows around the front part and drains through tiny canals near the outer edge of the iris. This spot is called the ‘drainage angle’. This continuous drainage of fluid keeps the pressure inside your eye at a healthy level. However, an eye injury can cause the fluid to build up – as a result, there is an increase in pressure inside the eye. This increasing pressure can damage the optic nerve causing blurry vision and light sensitivity.  However, not every injury leads to angle recession glaucoma. 

Insight 2: A blunt trauma is the most common cause of angle recession glaucoma 

A blunt trauma is the most common cause of angle recession glaucoma. Some of the most common types are: 

  • Sports injuries such as getting punched or elbowed in the eye or hit with an object in the eye
  • Car accidents that cause facial trauma
  • Physical assault
  • Severe falls
  • Industrial injuries

Insight 3: There may not be early warning signs 

There are no early signs of glaucoma. And, it is the same with angle recession glaucoma. The high eye pressure slowly damages the fibres in the optic nerve. By the time you will notice any change in vision, the condition would have worsened. Loss of peripheral vision is one of the most common symptoms of angle recession glaucoma. 

Angle recession glaucoma can develop even years after the injury. Some people even forget about the injury by the time glaucoma develops. It is, therefore, important to schedule annual eye exams with an ophthalmologist. This is all the more important if you have suffered an eye injury. You will be screened for angle recession and timely treatment can be started to protect your vision.  

Insight 4: For diagnosis, eye pressure and drainage angle needs to be checked 

The two most common tests that your ophthalmologist will conduct to check for glaucoma are — tonometry and gonioscopy. Tonometry is done to determine the pressure inside the eye while gonioscopy helps to check the drainage angle of the eye. The eye doctor may also ask you to get 

a visual field test to check the peripheral vision for losses you may not have noticed yourself. 

Insight 5: Glaucoma damage cannot be reversed but more vision loss can be prevented

The damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. However, by seeking  timely treatment, further damage can be slowed. The severity of the eye injury will decide the course of treatment. Some of the treatment options are: 

  • Medication: Prescription eye drops medications lowers the amount of fluid and, thus, lower eye pressure. Usually, eye doctors prescribe the medications and monitor the eye pressure every month. 
  • Laser treatment: Laser treatment may be recommended when the medications are not effective at lowering excessive eye pressure. 
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be suggested. During the surgery, a new opening in the white of your eye is created. This opening allows fluid to drain and this reduces eye pressure. 

Insight 6: To prevent angle recession glaucoma, protect your eyes from injuries 

Angle recession glaucoma may not be entirely preventable in every case. But you can reduce the risk by taking certain precautions such as wearing safety glasses when working with tools or when you play sports. 

 

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Retina FAQ: A guide curated by some of the best retina specialists in Kolkata

The retina is an essential part of your vision as it’s responsible for turning light rays into images through signals to the brain. When there’s a problem with the retina, you run the risk of having vision problems. Our retina specialists in Kolkata, who specialize in diagnosing and treating retinal conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and retinal detachment, answer some of the frequently asked questions on the retina:  

1.What is the retina? 

 

The retina is a layer of cells at the back of the eye. The job of the retina is to receive light, convert that light into a neural signal, and send the signal via the optic nerve to the brain. The brain interprets these signals and creates an image.

retina specialist in kolkata

2.What are the different parts of the retina? 

The retina is nearly 0.5 mm thick and lines the back of the eye. It contains 200 million neurons and different parts of the retina are responsible for various vision functions. The macula is the most important part of the retina as it allows you to controls your central vision. It is the macula that allows you to see fine details, color, recognize faces and read.  and more.

3.What are the different types of retinal conditions? 

Some of the common retinal conditions are 

  • Macular degeneration
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Retinal detachment
  • Retinal tear.

There are other medical conditions that can occur, but these are some of the most common ones.

4.What is retinal detachment and what are the different types? 

Retinal detachment is a medical emergency. It occurs when the retina detaches and pulls away from its normal position. A detached retina doesn’t hurt but it may cause the sudden appearance of flashes of light and floaters. If immediate treatment is not sought, retinal detachment can result in permanent loss of vision. There are three different types of retinal detachment: 

  • Rhegmatogenous: This is the most common type of retinal detachment.  A tear in the retina causes the fluid to accumulate. The fluid pulls the retina away. The detached portions lose their blood supply, which results in loss of vision. 
  • Tractional: This type of detachment happens when the scar tissue grows on the retina’s surface. This type of retinal detachment is seen more commonly in people with uncontrolled diabetes. 
  • Exudative: In this type of retinal detachment, fluid accumulates below the retina, but there are no holes in the retina. Age-related macular degeneration, an injury to the eye or tumors are some of the causes of this type of retinal detachment. 

5.Is retinal detachment different from retinal tear? Both retinal tear and retinal detachment have similar symptoms. The retina could tear before it detaches.

6.What symptoms should warrant a visit to a retina specialist?

Retinal problems vary widely. However, most of them cause visual symptoms. Some of the common symptoms that should prompt you to see a retina specialist are: 

  • The sudden appearance of floaters 
  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Poor peripheral vision
  • Sudden loss of vision

 7.How are retinal problems diagnosed?

There are many sophisticated diagnostic tests such as optical coherence tomography, automated perimetry, and digital fundus photography that are carried out to detect a retinal condition. A retina specialist will recommend appropriate tests, depending on your symptoms.

8.How are retinal conditions treated? 

Treating retinal conditions can be sometimes complex. The nature of treatment depends on the condition, severity, and treatment options. From shrinking abnormal blood vessels to removing and replacing eye fluid, from injecting medications to laser surgery, there are many treatment options available. A retina specialist is the best person to suggest an appropriate course of treatment.

9.How to prevent retinal conditions?

Though some retinal conditions are out of your control, you must follow a healthy lifestyle for your overall eye health. Having a healthy diet and exercising regularly is good for your eyes and overall health. Smoking increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Therefore, quit smoking.

10. How often retinal exam is necessary? 

You must get your eyes tested once a year. If you are diabetic or have an eye condition, your doctor may suggest more frequent eye check-ups.

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Avoid digital eye strain while working from home

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people working from home has increased significantly since last year. However, this has resulted in people spending too much time in front of their digital devices, which in turn has led to an increase in complaints of eye strain and dry eyes. Staring at a screen for too long can also cause headaches, eye fatigue, shoulder pain and in some cases, deteriorated vision.

If you are working from home and are looking for useful tips to protect your eyes from too much screen time, here’s a useful read. These tips are curated by our eye doctors in Kolkata:

Avoid digital eye strain while working from home

Tip 1: Adjust the position of your screen:

The positioning of the screen of your digital device has a significant impact on your eyes. When working, make sure that the screen of your computer or laptop is just below your eye level.

Tip 2: Check the lighting of your room: 

Insufficient lighting as well as excessive lighting can put pressure on your eyes – which can cause discomfort and in some cases, vision problems. Usually lower ambient light levels are right for screen- intensive jobs. For paper-related work ( especially when the characters are small) , higher ambient light levels are recommended.

Tip 3: Don’t place the digital device too close to the eyes: 

By keeping the device close to your eyes, your eyes have to work hard to see the content. Ideally, you should keep your digital screen at least 50-100 cm away from your eyes.

Tip 4: Take frequent breaks: 

When working from home, frequent breaks are necessary as working continuously for a long period of time can affect your eyes and health. Also, taking short breaks enhances work productivity.

Tip 5: Wear computer eyeglasses: 

Computer glasses with anti-glare coating and blue light filtering can help you get relief from digital eye strain.

Tip 6: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: 

Your eyes, like the rest of the body, need regular exercise. The 20-20-20 rule is an easy exercise that you can do when working from home. After every 20 minutes, look away from your digital screen and focus on an object within 20 feet of you for 20 seconds.

Tip 7: Get your eyes examined annually:

A comprehensive eye exam is a must as it helps detect eye problems at an early age. Even if you don’t experience any change in your vision, make it a point to get your eyes checked at least once a year. Here’s a useful read on why you should be going for regular eye exams.

At Disha Eye Hospitals, we are passionate about providing world-class eye care affordable to all sections of the society. From vision correction surgery and cataract surgery to the treatment of very complex conditions, we offer a comprehensive range of services that meets everyone’s needs.

 

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Gonioscopy: What Is It And Why Is It Needed?

Have you or your family member been advised to undergo gonioscopy and you are wondering what the test is all about? Well, gonioscopy is done to evaluate the internal drainage system of the eye. The front part of the eye is filled with clear fluid. It is this fluid that nourishes the lens and maintains pressure within the eye. The fluid carries nutrients to the lens and cornea. The fluid naturally drains out of the eyes from the area between the iris and the cornea. An ophthalmologist performs a gonioscopy to check to see if this drainage system is working properly. Here is an overview of why gonioscopy is done and what does it entail by our eye doctors in Kolkata: 

eye doctor in kolkata

  • Why is gonioscopy  done? Gonioscopy is recommended if your ophthalmologist thinks you should be checked for glaucoma. The eye condition damages the optic nerve. There are many types of glaucoma. They do not have any warning signs. By the time noticeable symptoms such as blind spots and floaters appear the condition is in advanced stages. If you have glaucoma, gonioscopy can help your ophthalmologist see which type of glaucoma you have. Early detection of glaucoma is the best way to prevent vision loss due to the condition. 
  • How glaucoma affects the eyes? In most types of glaucoma, the eye’s drainage system doesn’t work as it should and the clear fluid cannot drain. The excess fluid builds pressure inside the eye. This increased pressure damages the sensitive optic nerve fibres, which if not treated can result in vision loss. 
  • What to expect during the test? For a gonioscopy exam, your eyes will be dilated with eye drops. This is done so that the ophthalmologist can fully examine the health of the optic nerve and retina. Once the pupils are dilated, you will rest your head in the chin holder of a slit-lamp microscope. Through the instrument, your ophthalmologist will look into your eyes. Now, the doctor will direct a beam of light into the lens of the eyes. It is a painless examination. 
  • Should everyone get gonioscopy done? Early signs of vision changes and eye disease often start at around 40. All adults should get a baseline eye screening by an ophthalmologist at 40. Those who have diabetes need eye exams more frequently. Your ophthalmologist will tell you how often to have follow-up exams such as gonioscopy based on the results of this screening. 
  • Who should get gonioscopy done? Some people are considered glaucoma suspects. Their ophthalmologist may recommend gonioscopy and other glaucoma screenings regularly. When it comes to glaucoma, time is of the essence. Regular exams can save your vision.
  • How often should gonioscopy be done? Gonioscopy is suggested every 1 to 5 years, depending on the type of glaucoma. For closed-angle cases, the test is recommended at regular intervals. In open-angle cases, the test is performed at least once a year. 

At Disha Eye Hospitals, we offer high-quality eye care and a wide range of diagnostic and imaging services including gonioscopy. Our team of eye doctors in Kolkata include optometrists, surgeons, ophthalmologists and paediatric ophthalmologists will help you understand your eye condition and will offer the best patient care possible. 

 

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I Have Eye Pain and a Headache. What Should I Do?

People experience eye pain and headache often due to refractive errors or eye strain. If you are experiencing  these symptoms together, it is recommended that you see an eye specialist to get the problem  diagnosed and seek treatment without any delay. Over here  our eye specialists talk about the causes of eye pain and headache and what should you do: 

eye specialist

Causes of eye pain and headache 

  • Digital eye strain: When you’ve been using the computer for a while, it’s normal for your eyes to get tired  – and as a result, you get a headache. Usually, over-the-counter eye drops and a quick nap should relieve the symptoms. In case of digital eye strain, along with eye pain and headache, you may also experience neck tension. 
  • Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a serious condition that can cause eye pain and headaches. The condition damages the optic nerve. This damage is caused due to abnormally high pressure in your eye. If you develop acute angle-closure glaucoma, you are likely to experience bloodshot eyes, blurry vision, along with eye pain and headache. When such symptoms are experienced, you should immediately see an eye specialist to avoid further worsening of eyesight. Glaucoma when not treated for too long can lead to loss of vision. 
  • Optic neuritis: This serious condition necessitates an eye exam. The condition indicates that the optic nerve has swelling or inflammation. In addition to eye pain and headaches, a person with optic neuritis may experience vision loss in one eye, loss of colour vision and flashing lights. This eye condition is serious and if not addressed timely, it can cause lasting damage to your eyes. 
  • Refractive errors: Eye pain and headaches are usually serious, but in some cases, they may be signs of refractive errors such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. These refractive errors may strain your eyes along with causing headaches. Refractive errors are the most common type of vision problem.  An eye specialist will conduct an eye test to detect refractive errors. Prescription glasses are the simplest and safest way to correct refractive errors. Lasik surgery is also performed to correct refractive errors. 

What should I do? 

If you are experiencing eye pain and headaches, don’t try to be your own doctor. See an eye specialist immediately. A comprehensive eye examination can help the eye doctor figure out the cause of these symptoms. 

If you are suffering from Diabetes or high blood pressure and haven’t had an annual comprehensive eye exam for too long,  schedule an appointment with our eye specialists.  

What you need for your appointment with an eye specialist:

 

When you meet an eye specialist, be prepared to answer questions about the symptoms you are experiencing.  Note all the symptoms on a paper so that you do not miss out any. Be ready to give a quick description of your family medical history. Do tell the eye specialist about the medications you are currently taking. 

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When is LASIK not for me?

LASIK surgery offers many benefits including improved vision, reduced dependency on eyeglasses or contact lenses and short recovery time. It is one of the most widely performed surgeries to treat refractive errors such as nearsightedness, astigmatism, and/or farsightedness. It has a high success rate. However, LASIK is not for everyone. It is for your ophthalmologist and eye surgeon to decide whether LASIK eye surgery is the right treatment for you. Generally, in order to be the right candidate for laser eye surgery, you should meet some criteria.

best eye treatment in kolkata

Over here our doctors at Disha Eye Hospitals, one of the leading eye hospitals offering the best eye treatment in Kolkata, have shared insights on when LASIK eye surgery ihttp://www.dishaeye.org/#undefineds not appropriate for an individual:

 

  • Age: If you are not an adult, you cannot undergo LASIK eye surgery. The results of LASIK surgery are permanent. However, a person’s vision changes throughout life. During the adolescent years, vision can change dramatically. LASIK is, therefore, not recommended for anyone under the age of 18.

 

  • Refractive instability: You are not a good LASIK candidate if your contact lens or glasses prescription is fluctuating. Most doctors prefer your prescription to be stable for longer than one year. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, individuals with hormonal imbalance and those who are taking medications that may cause fluctuations in vision are not advised to undergo LASIK eye surgery. A steady eye prescription for at least one year is a must.

 

  • Certain medications: Certain prescription drugs can interfere with LASIK results. For instance, certain medications for acne can cause dry eyes that are likely to increase the chances of corneal scarring, visit http://www.papsociety.org/accutane-isotretinoin/. Do let your doctor know if you are taking any prescription drugs.

 

  • General health: LASIK candidates must be in good general health. Certain health conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disease or vein-related disease or any condition that compromises the immune response can affect the way the body heals after surgery. People with such conditions are not good LASIK candidates.

 

  • Thin cornea: During the LASIK surgery, the eye’s focusing power is changed by reshaping the cornea. A thin cornea may result in complications.

 

  • Eye diseases: LASIK eye surgery is not for you if you are suffering from eye diseases such as dry eyes, keratoconus, glaucoma, cataracts, corneal disease and retinal and optic nerve diseases. A person with dry eyes or any other eye disease has an increased risk for significant post-LASIK discomfort.

 

  • High-contact sports: Those who participate in high-contact sports such as boxing, wrestling, martial arts or other activities are often advised against undergoing LASIK. In these sports, blows to the face and eyes are a normal occurrence. Non-contact sports persons can benefit from an improved vision that LASIK surgery offers.

 

If you wish to know whether or not you are the right candidate for LASIK eye surgery, book an appointment at Disha Eye Hospital offering the best eye treatment in Kolkata. Our well-experienced doctors have performed over 1,000,000 successful surgeries.

 

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What is a mini stroke in the eye?

Do you know that strokes don’t only happen in the brain? They can happen in the eyes too. Like the stroke in the brain, when blood flow is blocked in the retina it can cause a stroke in the eye which is also known as retinal artery occlusion. Just like a brain stroke, a stroke in the eye is a medical emergency that needs immediate medical attention. If you don’t get treated right away, an eye stroke can cause loss of vision. 

Over here we discuss the causes and symptoms of an eye stroke so that medical help can be sought in the hour of need: 

eye doctor in kolkata

Causes of an eye stroke: 

Much like a brain stroke, an eye stroke is caused due to poor circulation in the blood vessels. When the blood to the brain is reduced or cut off, the retina loses its blood and nutrient supply. This damages the nerve tissue, resulting in a sudden loss of vision. 

Symptoms of an eye stroke: 

An eye stroke is a medical emergency and usually comes without pain and thus, it is important that you are well aware of all the symptoms. If you or your loved one experiences any of the following symptoms, rush to an eye hospital: 

  • A sudden change in vision or loss of vision in one eye. 
  • Some people may experience loss of peripheral vision only. 
  • Blurry or destroyed vision. 
  • Vision changing or getting worse within hours. 

Who are at the risk of having an eye stroke?

Though anyone can suffer from an eye stroke, certain people may have a higher risk than others of having an eye stroke. The risk factors are similar to those of a brain stroke. The risk factors include: 

  • Blocked arteries
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Previous heart attack or stroke
  • Chest pain
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Diabetes or a family history of diabetes
  • Glaucoma

How is an eye stroke diagnosed? 

If your eye doctor suspects an eye stroke, he or she will review your medical history. Your blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels will be measured as well as your central visual acuity and visual field. The affected eye will be compared to the normal eye. He or she will ask about symptoms such as fever, headache, jaw pain and weight loss. 

Treatment plan 

When a person is suffering from an eye stroke, every minute counts. 4 hours of blockage can damage the vision permanently. Treatment may involve medication to dissolve blood clots or laser treatment that move the blood clots away from the retina. In some cases, eye doctors may recommend widening of the arteries in the retina. Lasting injury can be avoided if blocked arteries are cleared and blood flow is restored. Also, long-term follow-up care is needed after a person suffers from an eye stroke. 

How to prevent an eye stroke?

The most essential and important part of preventing an eye stroke is to keep your heart in good health. Ensure that your blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol levels are within the optimal range. Embrace a healthy lifestyle that includes a good diet and exercise. Smoking increases the risk of all types of stroke. If you smoke, try to quit it gradually.  If you have glaucoma, get your eye checked regularly.

When to see an eye doctor?

Eye stroke is a medical emergency, get medical help right away. The emergency OPD at Disha Eye Hospitals has a dedicated eye doctor. Patients with eye emergencies are seen without any prior appointment. You can also tele-consult our eye doctors in Kolkata. However, in case of an emergency, rush to our nearest branch. 

 

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Types Of Eye Surgeries

In recent years, there have been incredible advancements in vision correction surgeries. From surgical procedures that people see well without glasses or contact lenses to operations that can remove cataracts, there are many types of eye surgeries that are helping people see better.

 

Here are the different types of corrective eye surgeries, why you may need and what to expect when you have them:

eye surgeon in kolkata

  • LASIK: It is one of the most common eye surgeries performed to reduce the patient’s dependency on eyeglasses and contact lenses. It is done to treat common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or astigmatism. The eye surgery involves reshaping the underlying corneal tissue to focus light into the eye and reach the retina. An outpatient surgery, LASIK is performed under local anaesthesia and the procedure is painless. After the surgery, some people may still need spectacles as they get older. Those who had a strong prescription may also need spectacles even after the surgery. In order to be a good candidate for LASIK, you need to have a thick cornea and stable eyeglass prescription. LASIK is not recommended for pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions.

 

  • Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK): The aim of both LASIK and PRK is the same — to treat refractive errors so that you won’t need contact lenses or glasses. In some cases, PRK is preferred over LASIK when certain patients do not have thick corneas as required for LASIK. After the PRK surgery, your eyes may hurt. However, the pain goes away eventually. It is recommended that you should not drive for a few weeks after the surgery.

 

  • Cataract surgery: Cataract surgery is the best treatment for cataracts. The eye surgery is done using advanced technology like a laser. An eye surgeon removes the clouded lens with an artificial lens. An outpatient surgery, the procedure is completed in 15 to 20 minutes. However, pre and post-operative procedures can take more than an hour. Cataract surgery is one of the most common eye surgeries with a high success rate.

 

  • Glaucoma surgery: When left untreated for long, glaucoma can lead to complete loss of vision. There are different types of surgeries available to treat glaucoma. The goal of both then surgeries is to lower the eye pressure. Though glaucoma cannot be cured, with appropriate treatment it can be controlled. Glaucoma surgery is done using a laser as well as conventional methods. The procedure done using a laser is minimally invasive and the patient can go home the same after the surgery. After the surgery, the eyes may look red or may water. If you either are above the age of 40 or you have a family history of glaucoma, then you get your eyes tested for the condition.

 

  • Diabetic Retinopathy surgery: Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes-related eye complication. If you have high blood sugar levels, they can damage blood vessels causing them to leak fluid and blood into the retina. This could cause blurry vision. Surgery is done to prevent future blood vessel leaks.

Want to consult some of the best eye surgeons in Kolkata? 

Disha Eye Hospitals has some of the best eye surgeons in Kolkata who have performed eye surgeries with precision and high success rate. If you are looking for eye surgeons in Kolkata, consult our leading eye surgeons. In the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, you can book an online consultation.

 

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All About Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune disease which affects the muscles and other tissues in the orbits. People who suffer from systemic/overactive thyroid problems are more likely to suffer from TED.  People affected often look like they are staring at a point, have swollen upper and lower lids and protruding eyes. Over here let’s discuss more about the disease, its symptoms and treatment.

 

TED occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the tissue near the eyes. As a result, the muscles and other tissues are inflamed, swollen and often become stiff. In most cases, thyroid eye disease only causes irritation and swelling of the eyes. People affected may feel the discomfort for a few months or maybe a year before the problem settles down. However, in some rare cases the problem can be serious and even lead to vision loss.

 

It’s important to note that eye and thyroid problems are connected but they have different courses of treatment. The medications for thyroid problems can’t help you manage the symptoms associated with the eye disease.  A CT scan or an MRI is a very important test for the diagnosis of the disease.

 

 

How does TED affect the eyes?

 

When the muscles behind the eye are swollen, they push the eye forward – which can impact the eye movement causing the patient to complain of double vision. In rare cases where the eye muscles get severely swollen, the optic nerve is pushed which may lead to visual loss.

 

Symptoms of TED

 

  • Eye irritation
  • Dry or gritty eyes
  • Double vision
  • Teary eyes
  • Eye pain while moving the eyes
  • Redness of eyes
  • Puffy eyelids

 

If you experience any of these symptoms, visit an eye specialist immediately- as these symptoms indicate very quickly progressing form of thyroid eye disease. In case of mild to moderate disease, symptoms include bulging eyes, redness, and puffiness of the eyelid and around the eyes.

 

Important advice for patients suffering from TED

 

  • Quit smoking
  • Get your blood thyroid levels checked regularly

 

Treatment options

 

Often the symptoms associated with TED are fluctuating in nature – which means they come and go for several weeks. In some cases, one may notice the symptoms for 1-2 years. Patients who suffer from progressing form of thyroid eye disease notice the worsening of symptoms in a few months of the problem starting. Let’s see the treatment options for the common symptoms

 

  • For irritation and redness of the eyes, artificial tears are often found to be useful
  • Some patients are given medications to reduce the inflammation
  • In most cases, the problem of starey look settles with time. If the starey look is severe and is affecting the appearance, eyelid surgery can be performed
  • Squint surgery can be done to cure double vision. Some patients are also recommended to use prisms attached to spectacles to alleviate double vision
  • If you are suffering from deteriorating vision and even with the change of spectacles your vision isn’t improving, consult with an eye specialist immediately.

Don’t take any instance of vision change lightly as it can indicate a serious problem. If you live in Kolkata and are looking for an eye specialist in Kolkata, get in touch with us.