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What You Should Know About Fuchs’ Dystrophy: insights curated by the best eye doctors in Kolkata

Fuchs’ dystrophy, also called Fuchs’ disease, is found within the cornea of the eye. Many people in their 30s and 40s may have Fuchs’ dystrophy but do not know it. Vision problems might not appear until age 50 or later. As Fuchs’ dystrophy is a relatively common condition affecting people, our eye surgeons in Kolkata have curated a list of important things you should know about the disease:

best eye doctors

What is Fuchs’ Dystrophy? 

Fuchs’ Dystrophy is a corneal disease. It occurs when endothelium cells in the corneal layer gradually die or do not work well. These cells are responsible for pumping the fluid and keeping the cornea clear. When these cells do not function well, fluid builds up and the cornea gets swollen, causing vision to get cloudy.

Symptoms of Fuchs’ Dystrophy

There are two stages of Fuchs’ dystrophy. The condition is progressive which means the symptoms worsen gradually.

First stage symptoms 

  • Vision may be blurry when in the morning but improve throughout the day. 

Second stage symptoms

  • The blurry vision will not get better as the day goes on. 
  • Increased sensitivity to light
  • Difficulty seeing at night
  • Seeing small dots, stars, or shapes throughout the day
  • Eye swelling and pain
  • Eye problems get worse in humid areas
  • A gritty-like feeling in both eyes

Causes of Fuchs’ dystrophy

The condition is caused when endothelial cells in the cornea die. The precise cause of this cellular destruction is not known. The endothelial cells are responsible for balancing fluids in the cornea. Without them, the cornea swells because of the fluid buildup. As the cornea swells up, the vision is affected.

Who is at the risk of getting Fuchs’ dystrophy ?

  • Fuchs’ dystrophy affects more women than men. 
  • Those with diabetes are also at a greater risk. 
  • Smoking is also a risk factor.
  • Having a family history of Fuchs’ Dystrophy increases the risk.

How is Fuchs’ dystrophy diagnosed?

  1. Fuchs’ dystrophy is diagnosed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. During the eye exam, they’ll look for signs of changes in the cornea.
  2. To check the thickness of the cornea, the eye doctor may suggest a few tests including pachymetry. These tests will give the eye doctors images of the cornea. Using these images, the doctor will count the endothelial cells. 
  3. An eye pressure test may also be suggested to rule out other eye diseases, such as glaucoma.

Fuchs’ dystrophy and cataracts

Some people can develop cataracts and have Fuchs’ Dystrophy. In this case, the person will need to undergo two types of surgeries at once: one for cataract removal and the other for a corneal transplant.

Treatment for Fuchs’ Dystrophy

  • Eye drops or ointments:  The early stage of Fuchs’ Dystrophy is treated with prescription eye drops or ointments. 
  • Corneal transplant: In case of significant corneal scarring, a transplant surgery may be done. There are two options
  1. Full corneal transplant: The damaged cornea will be replaced by the cornea of a donor. 
  2.  Endothelial keratoplasty: This involves transplanting endothelial cells in the cornea to replace the damaged ones.

Looking for an eye surgeon in Kolkata?  

If you are looking for eye surgeons in Kolkata, visit our Disha Eye Hospitals. Our eye surgeons in Kolkata specialise in treating several eye conditions including glaucoma, corneal diseases, retinal conditions and  cataract.

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Can Cataract affect children?

Cataracts are often associated with ageing. Most people start getting cataracts around age 40 and symptoms appear as they age. Although very rare, children can get cataracts too. It is either present at the time of their birth or can happen due to some medical conditions.

eye doctor in kolkata

Cataracts in children can be:

  • Unilateral – Affect one eye
  • Bilateral – Affect both eyes

First, let us understand what cataracts are.

  • What are cataracts?

The clouding of the natural lens of the human eye is known as cataract. Seeing through cloudy lenses leads to blurry, unclear vision. For the eyes to see, the light rays pass through the lens and focus on the retina. With cataract, the eye lens becomes foggy, for which it cannot focus on the light in the same way.

 

  • Can cataracts affect children?

Yes, cataracts can affect children. Although it is very rare, some are born with cataracts. They can also develop cataracts at a very young age, which are known as childhood cataracts. 

  1. Congenital cataracts: Some children are born with cataracts, or may get them in childhood. This type of cataract mostly happens in both eyes and can affect the child’s vision. 
  2. Secondary cataracts: These cataracts form due to some other medical conditions. For instance, other eye problems, diabetes or even due to medicines. 
  3. Traumatic cataracts: Some cataracts happen due to eye injuries. A child may get cataracts directly after hurting the eye or can occur many years later.
  4. Radiation cataracts: Sometimes a child may get cataracts due to their exposure to some types of radiation.
  • What are the causes of cataracts in a child?

Some of the causes of cataracts in a child are:

  • Genetic fault inherited from parents
  • Certain genetic conditions 
  • Infections picked up by the mother during pregnancy
  • Eye injury after birth

 

  • What are the symptoms of cataracts in children?

Here are a few symptoms of cataracts in children: 

  • Misaligned eyes
  • A pupil that appears to be white when a flashlight is shined ito it
  • Eye movements that cannot be controlled
  • Blurry vision
  • Trouble seeing
  • Seeing a halo around an object

 

  • How is cataract treated in children?

Treatment of cataracts in children depends upon the child:

  • Age
  • Symptoms 
  • Health condition
  • The severity of the condition

The eye care doctor of the child will decide upon what treatment should be given to them. They may prescribe the child to:

  • Wear glasses or contact lenses
  • Go through surgery to remove the cataracts

If you are looking for the best eye doctor in Kolkata, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have paediatric ophthalmologists and specialists who are committed  to provide best possible care to patients. Our paediatric ophthalmologists deal with eye diseases, vision care and visual development of children.

Here are some eye disorders that our paediatric ophthalmologist and strabismologist treat:

  1. Paediatric strabismus
  2. Paediatric cataract
  3. Amblyopia
  4. Adult Strabismus
  5. Allergic disorders (red eye)
  6. Retinopathy of prematurity
  7. Paediatric glaucoma

We offer also offer diagnostic and imaging services. Advanced tests and diagnostic procedures help doctors to evaluate and treat different eye conditions.  

 

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Paediatric Refractive Errors: what you need to know as parents?

If you notice your child having trouble reading or sitting too close to the television, you should consider taking him or her to an eye doctor. These along with eye rubbing, squinting and lack of interest in school are often seen in children with refractive errors. Poor vision in one or both eyes during childhood can lead to the condition known as lazy eye that can cause long-term problems with your child’s vision. Here are some important things that you as parents should know about pediatric refractive errors and how they can be corrected:

eye treatment in kolkata

Importance of healthy eyes for children 

Healthy eyes and vision are extremely crucial for children. Good vision not only aids in reading, but is equally important for performance in co-curricular activities in school.

What are refractive errors?

A type of vision problem, refractive errors cause blurred vision in children as the shape of the eyes keep the light from focusing images on the retina. The most common type of refractive errors are: 

  • Farsightedness (hyperopia)
  • Nearsightedness (myopia)
  • Astigmatism

If these conditions are not corrected, they can have harmful consequences for your children.

Here we discuss in detail the common refractive errors:

Farsightedness or hyperopia

Children with hyperopia find it difficult to focus on objects close to them. However, they can clearly see faraway objects.

Symptoms: 

  • Trouble seeing objects up close 
  • Squinting the eyes a lot

Nearsightedness or myopia

Children with myopia cannot focus clearly on distant objects. Nearsightedness is the most common refractive error that is seen in children. Parents should know that young children may not be able to tell that they cannot see properly or may be they are unaware.  It is therefore important for parents to observe children and take them to an eye doctor if they are sitting too close to the TV or holding books up close in the face. 

Symptoms

  • Rubbing eyes
  • Sitting too close to the TV
  • Excess watering of eyes
  • Squinting

Causes

The length of the eyeball grows longer than usual. 

  • The cornea is too curved. 

Astigmatism

Astigmatism causes blurred distance and near vision.  In many cases, astigmatism begins in early childhood.

Symptoms 

  • Distorted vision
  • Eye strain
  • Difficulty with night vision
  • Eye rubbing
  • Trouble reading

Causes

  • Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or the lens of the eyes have an irregular curve.

How to correct the refractive errors?

Treatment for refractive errors include 

  • Prescription eyeglasses 
  • Prescription contact lenses
  • Refractive laser eye surgery

Looking for the best eye treatment in Kolkata for children?

Disha Eye Hospitals has a dedicated unit for Paediatric Ophthalmology and squint. Paediatric Ophthalmology deals with problems common to or seen in children. Our team of paediatric ophthalmologists offer the best care possible to children of all ages. 

Some of the eye conditions that our paediatric ophthalmologists and strabismologist treat include: 

  1. Paediatric strabismus
  2. Paediatric cataract
  3. Amblyopia
  4. Adult Strabismus
  5. Allergic disorders (red eye)
  6. Retinopathy of prematurity
  7. Paediatric glaucoma
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Your eyesight: 12 common vision myths

You may have heard all sorts of things about what is good and bad for your eyes. From walking on the green grass to eating carrots for better eyesight, there are many things that people. But is there any truth in these?  

12 common vision myths

Here we debunk the most common vision myths:

Myth 1: Wearing glasses all the time can do more harm than good

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, wearing eyeglasses does not damage your eyes. There are eye conditions such as nearsightedness which may get worse over time but it has nothing to do with wearing glasses all the time.

Myth 2: Staring at the computer screen all day can damage the eyes

Fact: Just working on a computer and staring at the screen does not damage the eyes. However, working long hours on the computers and not blinking can make the eyes feel tired. A combination of factors such as poor lighting, poor posture, and viewing a computer at the wrong distance and angle can contribute to eye strain. Therefore, it is important to give rest to the eyes every 20 minutes while working on a computer. It is recommended to sit up straight and keep the computer at arm’s length.

Myth 3: Walking on green grass with bare feet benefits eyes

Fact:  It is believed by many people that walking barefoot on green grass is beneficial for the eyes. But there is no scientific evidence to back this statement. It neither benefits nor harms the eyes. 

Myth 4: Carrots help improve eyesight

Fact: Any discussion on health seems incomplete without carrots. Yes, carrots are loaded with Vitamin A which is an essential nutrient for eye health. But it doesn’t necessarily give you the entire amount of Vitamin A needed by your body. Therefore, eating only carrots will not help. Consume other foods which are high in Vitamin A such as milk, egg yolks, oily fish, leafy greens for proper intake of Vitamin A. 

Myth 5: Not everyone gets cataracts.

Fact: Though cataracts are a part of the aging process, they can occur at any age. 

Myth 6: Eyes are fully grown at birth.

Fact:  It takes up to two years for a baby’s eyesight to fully develop. In fact, the eyes continue to grow over the course of a lifetime. 

Myth 7: Eye exams are unnecessary unless there is an eye problem.

Fact: This is the most dangerous myth that restricts people from going for regular eye checkups. There are eye issues that get revealed only during a routine examination. No matter how old or young you are, conditions such as glaucoma can only be detected and managed properly, if you sign for an eye check-up at least once a year. 

Looking for the best eye doctor in Kolkata?

At Disha Eye Hospitals, you can consult the best eye doctors in Kolkata. We offer laser treatment, refractive surgery, glaucoma treatment, cataract surgery, and many other services to help you get through your eye issues. 

Myth 8: Faulty movements can give crossed eyes

Fact: This is yet another misconception. Crossed eyes are a result of nerve damage. Since our eyes are designed to move in all directions,  do not be scared the next time you pull a funny face. 

Myth 9: Sungazing can improve eye health

Fact: Looking at the sun even for a short time can be harmful to your eyes. It can damage the retina permanently and even cause blindness.

Myth 10:  Losing vision is an inevitable part of ageing.

Fact: If detected earlier, many vision problems could be treated successfully. The key here is to have regular eye exams.  

Myth 11: People with diabetes will eventually lose eyesight

Fact: People with can prevent vision loss by keeping blood sugar levels under control. 

Myth 12: Vision Loss is genetic

Fact: It is commonly believed that if the parents never had an eye problem, the children are immune to vision issues. In reality, there is no guarantee of assured vision immunity. Vision problems may happen to anyone. 

 

 

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Eye Health FAQs

One of the most complex organs of the human body, your eyes are an important part of your health. They take in information and directly connect it with your brain, helping you to understand the world around you. Well, did you know that human eyes are made up of 2 million moving parts? Or the six muscles in each of the human eyes move faster than any other muscle in the body? As a leading eye hospital in Kolkata, we often receive a myriad of questions on eyes and eye health. Here we have curated a list of FAQs and their answers.

Eye health FAQs

1.What precautions should you take for the health of your eyes?

Keeping your eyes healthy is as important as keeping your body healthy. Here are a few steps you need to follow to keep your eyes healthy:

  • Eat healthy
  • Wear sunglasses under the sun
  • Wear safety eyewear while gardening, working in a factory or playing certain sports. 
  • Do not stare at computer or phone screen for too long.
  • Visit your eye doctor on regular intervals.

2. What health problems affect your eyes?

You would be surprised to know that there are a few health conditions that have no connection with your eyes per se, but can lead to eye problems. A few of them are: 

  • Diabetes: High blood sugar level can lead to several eye problems like blurry vision, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. These eye conditions can cause vision loss or blindness in people. 
  • High Blood Pressure:  High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels that supply blood to the eyes. It can cause damage to your retina, build up fluid under it, and can also damage your optic nerve. 
  • Measles: A highly contagious virus, measles can harm the front or back of the eye, which can lead to vision loss or blindness. It can lead to conjunctivitis, keratitis, retinopathy, optic neuritis, and corneal scarring. 
  • Liver Disease: The whites of a person’s eyes become jaundiced or yellow when they have any liver disease. Most of the common symptoms of liver cirrhosis can be felt in the eyes like itchiness and dryness. 

3. How to get the best eye treatment in Kolkata?

You can visit Disha Eye Hospitals in Kolkata to consult the best eye doctors. We are committed to providing our patients with the highest possible standard of ophthalmic care in an affordable manner. Our services include cataract surgery, lasik & refractive surgery, glaucoma treatment, diagnostic and imaging services.

4. What is an eye stroke?

An eye stroke is when blood flow is blocked in the retina due to blood clot. Without proper blood flow, the retina does not get sufficient oxygen, which may lead to serious consequences. An eye stroke should be treated immediately as any delay can damage one’s vision permanently.

5. What are the symptoms if you have a cold in your eye?

The symptoms if a person has an eye cold are:

  • Reddening of eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry vision
  • Itchiness or burning sensation
  • Watery eyes
  • Cold or flu-like symptoms

6. Which fruit is the best for the eyes?

Fruits rich in antioxidants can protect your eyes such as guava, kiwi, red berries, orange, and grapefruit.

7. How can I clean my eyes daily?

Always rinse your eyes with clean cool water for at least 15 minutes. Wash your hands before cleaning your eyes. You can do this while you are in the shower or over a sink. Finally, wipe your eyes with a clean cloth. 

8. Why do I have so many tears in my eyes?

There are several possible reasons to have watery eyes:

  • Due to allergies
  • Blocked tear ducts
  • Conjunctivitis 
  • Dry eyes
  • Problems with cornea

9. When should you see a doctor for watery eyes?

Although watery eyes clear up on their own sometimes, it may lead to serious consequences in a few cases. Seek medical help immediately if you have watery eyes with:

  • Pain or bruising around your eyes
  • Bleeding from eye
  • Severe headache
  • Reduced vision
  • Foreign particle stuck in your eyes

10. How do you stop a watery eye?

A few of the common remedies to stop a watery eye are: rinsing your eyes with water, using eye drops, removing eye irritation elements like dust and makeup from the eyes. If these don’t work, see your eye doctor who can diagnose the condition better with tests and treatment.

11. What is the best medicine for watery eyes?

Consult your eye doctor. He/she will prescribe you the right eye drops for watery eyes. If you have watery eyes due to any allergy, treat the allergies first. Your doctor may prescribe you antibiotics for infection or a surgery to clear your blocked tear ducts.

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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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Difference between an Ophthalmologist, Optometrist and Optician

 

If you ever had to search for an eye care provider, there are chances that you stumbled upon three words: Ophthalmologist, Optometrist and Optician. Each of these eye care practitioners plays a significant role in maintaining your eye health. However, you must understand their individual significance before deciding whom to approach and when.

As a leading eye hospital, we have listed down the difference between the three types of eye care providers:

Difference between an Ophthalmologist, Optometrist and Optician

1.Ophthalmologist: An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who provides complete eye and vision care services. The services include diagnosis and treatment of eye problems due to other health conditions, medical and surgical eye care, and plastic surgery near the eye area. What makes an ophthalmologist different from an optometrist and optician is their level of training. As a medical doctor, an ophthalmologist undergoes extensive training and is authorised to practise medicine and surgery. They can also prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct a patient’s vision problems.

Here are some suggestions for questions you can ask your ophthalmologist during an eye examination:

  • Can you let me know what eye tests should be done?
  • What is the cause of my vision loss?
  • Do I have peripheral field loss?
  • How is my eye condition? Is it stable? 

Why would you be referred to an ophthalmologist?

You will be referred to an ophthalmologist if the optometrist who did your eye examination finds signs of any eye condition. He or she will refer you to an ophthalmologist who specializes in eye conditions and diseases.
Note: If you are looking for the best eye doctor in Kolkata, visit our Disha Eye Hospitals. Our eye specialists specialize in diagnosing and treating several eye conditions such as glaucoma, corneal diseases, retinal conditions, cataract, and many other conditions.

2.Optometrist: An optometrist is a primary eye care professional who is trained to examine the eyes, detect any defects, provide low-vision aids and therapy, and prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses. They focus on the regular vision care of the eyes. 

Here are some suggestions for questions you can ask your optometrist:

  • What eye tests will you be running?
  • What do my symptoms mean? Is there any eye condition?
  • How do I maintain and monitor my eye health?
  • What are the treatments for my eye condition?

What can an optometrist diagnose?

An optometrist can find out about your health problems by examining your eyes. Along with diagnosing the eye problem, he or she can also treat the eye condition caused due to conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and others.

3.Optician: An optician is a trained technician to design, verify and fit your eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct your eyesight. They are not doctors, they follow the prescription given by your ophthalmologist or optometrist. The optician is not permitted to carry out eye tests or to diagnose and treat your eyes.

Here are some suggestions for questions you can ask an optician:

  • What kind of tests are involved in the eye exam I am prescribed?
  • Where do I find information about eye health?
  • Am I safe to drive?
  • What are the treatments available for my eye condition?

What does an optician look for?

An optician tests the eyes on the grounds of their ability to focus, coordinate, and see depth and colours accurately.

 

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FAQs On Eye Treatment in Kolkata

Our eye specialists are often asked questions such as why an annual eye examination is important or how diabetes affects eye health or how to avail the best eye treatment in kolkata. Here we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions on eye treatment that you might find useful:

  • Why are annual eye examinations important? Eye conditions such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma do not show any early symptoms. During a comprehensive annual eye exam, an eye doctor evaluates the health and condition of the eyes, giving you a better chance at getting the treatment at the right time. Certain conditions cannot be reversed but their progress can be slowed down with the right treatment. People suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure are often recommended to undergo frequent eye tests.
  • What is the most common eye treatment for refractive errors? Refractive errors are the most common type of vision problem. Refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and presbyopia occur when there is a problem with the shape of the cornea and it cannot focus light accurately on the retina. Eyeglasses are the simplest and safest way to correct refractive errors. Some people also get refractive surgery like LASIK surgery done to change the shape of the cornea and reduce dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses.
  • What is diabetic eye damage and can it be reversed? High blood sugar levels are not good for your overall health and your eyes are no exception. High blood sugar can lead to eye conditions such as blurry vision, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. According to a study, diabetes is the primary cause of blindness in adults. Diabetes damages the blood vessels in the retina. The damage cannot be reversed but by seeking timely treatment the condition can be slowed down.
  • How to prevent diabetic eye conditions? If you are diabetic, get a comprehensive dilated eye examination at least once a year. Control your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Try to quit smoking. If you smoke, your risk of diabetes-related eye diseases is higher. Exercising regularly is good for your eyes as it helps you keep your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check.
  • How often should a child get his/her eyes tested? Infants should have their first eye exam at six months. Young children should have their eye tests latest by age three. Here’s a useful guide for parents on scheduling paediatric eye exams. In our Kolkata branch and other branches in West Bengal, we have highly experienced paediatric ophthalmologists who can help you ensure that your child’s eyes are developing normally.
  • What are cataracts and is surgery the best treatment option? Cataract forms when the proteins in the eyes clump together causing them to cloud the lens of the eye. As the condition advances, you may have problems with reading and driving at night. Cataract surgery is the best way to remove cataracts. During the surgery, the damaged lens is replaced by an artificial one.
  • Is there a treatment for glaucoma? Glaucoma is a condition that damages the eye’s optic nerve due to increased eye pressure. The condition worsens over time and can even lead to loss of vision. Though the damage caused can’t be reversed, treatment such as prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment and surgery can help slow or prevent vision loss, particularly when the condition is detected in its early stages.

If you have any doubts or concerns about your eye health, get in touch with our eye specialists at Disha Eye Hospitals. They can help you maintain good eye health by advising you the right eye treatment plan.

 

 

 

 

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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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What are pinguecula and pterygium? Important insights curated by a leading eye hospital

Different parts of the body often develop benign growths and eyes are no exception. Pinguecula (plural pingueculae) and pterygium (plural: pterygia) are harmless, non-cancerous growths that develop on the eye’s conjunctiva, the connective tissue that covers the white part of the eyes. While the two may appear similar and have similar symptoms and causes, they are actually quite different. 

As a leading eye hospital, we share with you some important insights on pinguecula and pterygium – 

  • Pinguecula is a non-cancerous lump 

A pinguecula is a non-cancerous lump on the white part of the eye. Overexposure to the sun and ultraviolet radiation are the most common reason for the development of pinguecula. The yellow lump typically grows on the side of your eyeball closest to the nose. Made of protein, calcium and fats,  the lump can either be round or triangular in shape. Pingueculae can cause discomfort but doesn’t affect the vision: 

  • Pingueculae part of normal ageing 

Though Pingueculae can develop at any age, it is common among middle-aged and elderly people. It is in fact a normal part of ageing. 

  • Pingueculae and pterygia are not the same thing 

A Pinguecula should not be confused with a pterygium . Pterygia occur when a Pingueculae grows and turns into a pterygium, a benign fibrous growth. Pterygia are more likely to interfere with normal sight. A pterygium is more noticeable than pinguecula. When pterygium extends onto the cornea far enough it can cause blurred vision as the curvature of the cornea is changed. Pterygium may also disrupt the distribution of tears across the surface of the eye, creating a feeling of dryness. 

  • The main symptom of  Pingueculae is yellow bump 

Besides the yellow bump, people who develop Pingueculae experience mild symptoms such as:  

 pinguecula

  1. Irritation
  2. Dry eyes
  3. Redness
  4. Swelling around the eyes
  5. Burning sensation
  6. Foreign body sensation
  7. Blurry vision
  8. Discomfort when wearing contacts
  • Pingueculae can lead to astigmatism 

Pingueculae changes the natural curve of the eyeball – which  can lead to astigmatism, a refractive error.  Astigmatism can be corrected with specialised contact lenses or laser eye surgery.

  • Overexposure to the sun causes Pingueculae and pterygia

Overexposure to the sun’s UV rays are likely the cause of pingueculae and pterygia. According to 2019 study, Pingueculae are more common in people who live in countries near the equator, where the sun’s rays are strongest. Besides the sun exposure, Pingueculae may also develop due to regular irritation from wind, dust or other airborne particles. 

  • Pingueculae may not require treatment 

In most cases, pingueculae do not usually require treatment. OTC or prescription medications often help people get relief from symptoms such as itchiness, irritation and dryness. Surgery is usually reserved for cases where severe eye irritation is noticed. However, some people wish to get their pingueculae or pterygia removed surgically for cosmetic reasons.  

  • To avoid Pingueculae protect eyes from the sun 

As sunlight and UV rays are among risk factors for developing pingueculae, you should take care of your eyes when stepping out. Wear the right sunglasses when out in the sun. Choose sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun’s rays off the face and eyes. If you spend a lot of time outdoors or in a dusty area, wear protective eyewear to prevent irritants from entering your eyes.

If you experience any eye problems, see an eye doctor immediately. At Disha Eye Hospitals, we are committed to providing quality eye care at affordable cost to people from all walks of life. From vision correction surgery to cataract surgery, we offer a wide range of services.