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Watery Eyes: Causes, When to See an Eye Doctor and Treatment

It is common for everyone to experience water eyes at some point in their lives. Usually, people have watery eyes when  something gets in the eye. It could be a speck of dirt, dust, or even an eyelash.  But do you know that water eyes could be a sign of allergies or underlying medical conditions? Here’s an insightful read on what causes watery eyes and when should you see an eye doctor: 

eye specialist in kolkata

Causes of water eyes 

  1. Allergies: There could be many kinds of allergies that can cause eyes to water.   Exposure to pollen, pet dander, insects and fumes can also lead to watery, red and itchy eyes.  When it comes to allergies, people also experience other symptoms such as runny nose and coughing.

  2. Conjunctivitis: It is a condition in which your eyes turn pink or reddish with tears in your eyes. It might be inflammatory in some of the conditions. This condition could be due to some bacterial or viral infection. Avoid touching your eyes in this condition. Do not share towels or anything that touches your eyes.

  3. Blocked tear duct: When the tear duct of the eyes gets blocked or narrowed down. It creates problems for tears to run down into the nose and they remain in the eyes causing watery eyes. Some of the other signs include:
  •  Mucus
  • Crusty eyelashes 
  • Blurred vision 
  • Blood in the tears
  1. Dry eyes: If you are constantly suffering from dry eyes, the immune system will produce tears to keep the eyes moist.

  2. Eyelid problems: Eyelids are part of the drainage system of the eyes. If in some cases eyelid grows inwards, it may cause irritation leading to watery eyes.

  3. Bumps on the eyelids: A bump on the eyelid could be a stye or a chalazion. Mostly they are painless but sometimes could be annoying.

  4. Problems with cornea: The cornea is a very sensitive part of the eye. Even a minor scratch can be dangerous. Cornea can have many issues ranging from small scratches to ulcers. Any corneal condition can lead to irritation, strain, and watery eyes. 

Treatment of watery eyes: 

What is causing eyes to water will determine the course of treatment. Treatment options could include: 

  • Prescription eye drops
  • Antibiotics for eye infection 
  • Surgery if the tear ducts are blocked 


When to visit your doctor: 

You should consult your eye doctor if you face symptoms such as:

  • Vision loss or visual disturbances
  • Discharge or bleeding from your eye
  • Redness in the eye 
  • Eye pain 
  • Injury around the eye
  • Foreign object stuck in your eye on the inside of your eyelid
  • When water eyes do not go away on their own after a few days 

Are you looking for an eye specialist in Kolkata? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have some of the best eye specialists in Kolkata. They have years of experience and are well-versed in the latest medical technologies. 

We offer the best possible patient care. 

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Questions to Ask Your Child’s Eye Doctor

Good eyesight is important for children of all ages. Eye health is important for children’s academic as well as social development. Early education is based on visual aids and colours. As the children’s eyes are in developing stages, any problem detected early can have better chances of treatment. Therefore, parents should ensure that their child’s eyes are healthy. As parents, you should take your child for annual eye examinations. To make the most out of your appointment with your child’s eye doctor, it is important that you ask relevant and important questions. 

Remove term: best eye doctor in Kolkata best eye doctor

Here we share with you questions that you can ask your child’s eye doctor: 

1. Questions Related to General Paediatric Eye Exams: Many children have vision problems but are not easy to to notice. Here are some general paediatric questions that you could ask the doctor: 

  • Is my child showing any kind of symptoms for any eye problem?
  • How to identify symptoms that my child may be suffering from?
  • How frequently should we perform our child’s eye test?
  • Does my child require prescription glasses because of the condition?

2. Questions about Eye Conditions: Treatment and frequency of appointments will vary depending on whether your child has an eye condition or not. However, if your child shows signs of an eye condition, it needs to be addressed by a paediatric ophthalmologist. Knowing about your child’s eye condition can help you give better support to your child. Some of the questions that you can ask regarding eye conditions are: 

  • Can you explain the condition of the eye?
  • Is the effect taking place in one or both eyes?
  • What could have developed this eye condition?
  • Is my child’s vision normal right now?
  • Will this eye condition worsen with age?

This knowledge can help families understand more about their child’s eye condition. 

3. Questions Regarding Treatment: If your child is suffering from an eye condition, it is important that he or she gets appropriate treatment. Treatment options could be

  • Prescription glasses
  • Eye drops
  • Medication
  • Surgery or patching

Knowing the details regarding the treatment will help you to make a proper decision with the eye doctor for your child. Here are some of the questions that you can ask your child’s eye doctor regarding treatment:

  • What are the best options to treat this eye problem?
  • Are there any side effects caused by this treatment?
  • Besides treatment, what more can I do to help my child’s eye condition get better?

It is necessary for you to have proper information regarding your child’s eye treatment from credible sources, especially from your child’s eye doctor. 

4. Questions to Learn how Conditions may Affect your Child :  Paediatric eye conditions can cause a lot of problems in your child’s life. For instance, strabismus can cause double vision or lazy eye can cause problems in one or both eyes and the development of normal vision is disrupted. Refractive errors in children can make it difficult for them to study as they may struggle to see things clearly. 

Here are some questions you can ask to gain a better understanding of the situation if your child has an eye condition: 

  • Are there other problems associated with this eye problem?
  • Will my child face limitations because of the eye condition?
  • Will this eye condition affect my child’s day to day life?

Looking for a Paediatric Eye Surgeon in Kolkata?

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have a dedicated paediatric ophthalmology unit.
Our paediatric eye specialists and eye surgeons diagnose and treat strabismus, paediatric cataract, retinopathy of prematurity, paediatric glaucoma and other paediatric eye problems. 

 

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Diabetes and Eye Surgery FAQs

Diabetes and eye health are closely interlinked. Those with diabetes should make it a point to see an eye doctor at least once a year. Those with high blood sugar are at high risk of developing blurry vision, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Some of these eye conditions may require surgery. If you or any of your family members have diabetes, you are bound to have questions regarding surgery. 

As one of the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata,  we answer some of the frequently asked questions on diabetes and eye surgery: 

Question 1: Can diabetics have eye surgery?

Yes, diabetics can undergo any type of eye surgery. However, the type of eye surgery depends on your general health and the eye condition that you have. In some cases, you may have to wait until your general health has improved. An eye doctor can advise you on whether eye surgery is suitable for you and if yes, when is the most suitable time. 

Question 2: Do I need to keep sugar levels under control before surgery?

Yes, doctors will recommend you keep your sugar levels under control. High sugar levels increase the risk of complications after surgery such as: 

  • Slow healing 
  • Infection
  • Heart problems

Your eye doctor and endocrinologist will help control your diabetes. This may mean that your average sugar level reading or the three-monthly HbA1c reading needs to be in a particular range. 

Question 3: Do I need to fast before eye surgery?

For all types of eye surgeries, patients are instructed to not eat or drink 12 hours before eye surgery. This is because before the surgery muscle relaxing medications are given. If the stomach has food and drinks inside it, the chances of vomiting are there. If that happens, the food could enter the lungs and affect breathing. 

Question 4: Do I need to stop diabetes medicine before eye surgery? 

Usually, you will be advised not to take diabetes medicine before eye surgery to reduce the chances of lactic acidosis. The condition can be a medical emergency.  It is best to tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking and follow his or her instructions if you need to stop any drug before surgery. 

Question 5: I have diabetes, how do I prepare for eye surgery? 

The best way to prepare for eye surgery is to follow the advice given to you by your eye doctor and general practitioner or endocrinologist. Remember, the longer your sugar levels are under control, the outcomes of the surgery will be better and the recovery period will go well.

Question 6: What to expect after the surgery? 

After surgery, you will need to see your ophthalmologist frequently, so that he or she can monitor any effect that your diabetes may be having on the eyes. 

 

Question 7: How long is the recovery for diabetics after surgery? 

The recovery from eye surgery varies from one person to another. It is important that you follow post-operative instructions given to you by the doctor regarding eye drops and eye hygiene. 

 

Looking for an eye hospital in Kolkata? 

One of the best ways to lower the risk of diabetic eye diseases is to get your eyes checked once every year. Diabetic eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataract show no symptoms during their early stages. From diagnosis to eye surgery, you will find all eye care facilities at Disha Eye Hospitals, a leading eye hospital in Kolkata. 

 

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How to manage your eyesight when waiting for cataract surgery?

Following the pandemic, many things have taken a backseat and routine eye surgeries such as the ones for cataracts are no exception. This may mean to experience an extended period of delay in getting your cataract surgery. Though delay in cataract surgery doesn’t put your vision at permanent risk or doesn’t increase the risk of any surgery complications, it is important to take care of your eyesight while waiting for the surgery. As one of the leading eye hospitals in West Bengal, we share with you some important information on managing cataracts while you wait for surgery:

How to manage your eyesight when waiting for cataract surgery

 

  • Remove or reduce tripping hazards: When the vision is deteriorating, simple tasks inside the home can be hazardous. It is, therefore, important that you look around your home and identify things that may pose a tripping and falling hazard. Make sure your house has anti-slip rugs not just in bathrooms and kitchens but also in the living room and other areas. Ensure that there are no uneven surfaces and there is adequate lighting in the entryway and staircase. Remind family members not to leave objects in the walkways.

 

    1. Seek help to read: The cloudiness and sensitivity to light caused by cataracts can make reading difficult. If you are struggling with reading, audiobooks and podcasts are good alternatives. There are many popular newspapers and magazines that are available in digital formats wherein you can increase the font.
    2. Watch accessible TV shows: For many people, TV is an entertaining pastime. However, cataracts may interfere with it and make it difficult to see finer details. Watching shows with audio description is a great way to enjoy television without missing what is happening on the screen.
    3. Avoid harsh lights: Light sensitivity is a common symptom of cataracts. The glare of bright lights can be painful in some cases. Use thick curtains or blinds to block bright sunlight. Avoid the use of fluorescent lighting at home. Use warm white LEDs to cut the glare.

 

  • Quit smoking: Smoking has a direct negative effect on eyes. The free radicals in smoke from cigarettes and other tobacco products weaken the protein and the vital cell membrane of the eyes’ lens. You should try to quit smoking. You must also refrain from smoking immediately after the surgery.
  • Seek help with household chores: A healthy lifestyle is really important for your overall good health. If you are struggling with household chores such as cooking and cleaning, seek help from a friend or hire a professional. Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly play an important part too in eye health.
  • Discuss your medications with your eye doctor: Let your eye doctor know of any medications that you may be taking for other health conditions. . Also, if you are struggling to see your medication, seek help from a family member to organise your medication in such a way that you can take them safely. Otherwise speak to your pharmacist and use a medication organiser, https://neurofitnessfoundation.org/xanax-alprazolam/.

 

After cataract surgery, vision can be significantly improved. Our experienced doctors at Disha Eye Hospitals perform cataract removal surgeries using the latest techniques and technologies for favourable outcomes. To know more about cataract surgery, get in touch with us.

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What should glaucoma patients avoid?

Glaucoma is a group of progressive optic neuropathies that damage the eye’s optic nerve which can result in vision loss and blindness. Visual problems are often a late symptom of glaucoma when the disease is already very advanced. However, with early detection and treatment, you can protect your eyesight from deteriorating. Glaucoma can occur in any population, however, those most at risk include people who 

  • are aged 40 and above
  • have diabetes 
  • have a family history of glaucoma 
  • have eye injuries

Here is a useful read on the risk factors for glaucoma. 

glaucoma treatment

Treating patients with glaucoma – glaucoma treatment in Kolkata 

The damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible but with regular eye exams and the right treatment, you can reduce the risk of glaucoma worsening at a rapid rate over time. Once detected, there are different types of treatment options for glaucoma patients. In addition to prescription eye drops, medication, laser treatment and surgery, there are several lifestyle factors that can help you manage the symptoms.

What should glaucoma patients avoid? 

1. Avoid activities that increase eye pressure:

It is recommended for patients with glaucoma to have an active lifestyle. However exercises such as bungee jumping or inverted yoga poses that put the head below the heart may cause an increase in the intraocular pressure- hence they should be avoided. You can do brisk walking and regular exercise at a moderate pace – as they can lower eye pressure. If you lift heavy weights, ask a qualified trainer to show you how to breathe properly during the exercise. 

Note: A study found that when glaucoma patients performed head-down yoga poses, the IOP rose within one minute of doing each pose.

2. Avoid unhealthy foods:

The following food items can raise intraocular pressure and can damage the optic nerve – hence, it is important for you to reduce their consumption: 

  • Trans-fats raise your “bad” cholesterol and also lower your “good” cholesterol. A diet laden with trans fats can damage blood vessels which can harm the optic nerve. Avoid food items high in trans-fats such as cakes, cookies, biscuits, rolls, french fries, and fried chicken. 
  • Saturated fats such as butter, cheese, coconut oil, biscuits, sausages, bacon, and fatty cuts of meat cause the Body Mass Index (BMI) to increase. A high BMI is associated with high intraocular. 

Note: Instead of food items high on trans-fats and saturated fats, choose foods rich in complex carbohydrates such as oats, legumes, brown rice, whole grain pasta, broccoli, leafy greens, apples and berries. They take longer to digest and cause the blood sugar levels to rise slowly which is important because fluctuations in blood sugar levels in those with glaucoma can cause IOP to increase. 

3. Avoid sleeping with your eye against the pillow

If you are suffering from glaucoma, sleep in the right position. Do not sleep in a position where your eyes are against the pillow or your arms. 

Schedule your eye appointment today 

At Disha Eye Hospitals, our eye doctors are here to guide you and help you maintain good vision and healthy eyes. To know more about glaucoma treatment in Kolkata and other branches, visit here 

 

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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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Chalazion FAQs

A chalazion is a painless eye condition, where a small lump or swelling develops on a person’s eyelid. These lumps are formed due to the blockage and swelling of an oil gland in the eyelid and rarely last longer than a few weeks. As a leading eye hospital in Kolkata, we have curated a list of FAQs on chalazion and their answers:

Chalazion FAQs

1.What causes a chalazion?

A chalazion develops when a meibomian gland that lines the margin of the eyelids is blocked. These tiny oil glands produce oil that lubricates the surface of the eye.

2.What are the symptoms of a chalazion?

The symptoms of a chalazion include:

  • Red, swollen area on the eyelid
  • Painless lump on either of the eyelid
  • Blurry vision
  • Mild irritation

3. Where to get the best treatment for chalazion in Kolkata?

If you are looking for the best eye doctor in Kolkata, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have experienced eye specialists on board for various eye conditions. Our specialists are well-versed with advanced diagnostic services and treatment.

4.Who is at risk to get a chalazion?

Adults are more at risk to get a chalazion than children. Chalazion is more common in people with:

  • Inflammatory conditions – blepharitis, seborrheic, acne rosacea
  • Diabetes
  • Viral conjunctivitis
  • Who had a chalazion before

5.How is a chalazion diagnosed?

Doctors closely examine the patient’s eye —- eyelid structure, skin texture near the eye, and eyelash appearance —- to diagnose a chalazion. The doctor may check the medical history of the patient to determine if any other health problem is contributing to the eye condition, https://accisotret.com.

6.What is the treatment for a chalazion?

A chalazion can be treated in the following ways:

  • Apply warm compresses on the affected area: Soak a cloth in hot water and apply on the affected area. Repeatedly soak the cloth in hot water to maintain the heat. Do it three to five times a day until the chalazion is gone.
  • Apply antibiotic ointments: Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic ointment if the chalazion does not improve after warm compresses or if it keeps recurring.
  • Steroid injections: A steroid injection is also prescribed to reduce the swelling of a chalazion.
  • Surgical removal of chalazion: If the chalazion does not heal after all the other treatments or if it is affecting the vision, an ophthalmologist may perform a surgery to drain it.

7.How to prevent a chalazion?

The best way to prevent a chalazion from developing is by practising good hygiene. Here are a few things or steps you need to follow to prevent a chalazion:

  • Wash your hands before touching your eyes.
  • Everything that comes in contact with your eyes, for instance, your contact lenses, should be clean.
  • Wash your face to remove dirt before going to bed.
  • Your doctor may recommend an eyelid scrub to prevent a chalazion from occurring again.

8.What is the difference between a chalazion and stye?

Many people often confuse between a chalazion and stye as they both are lumps in or along the edge of the eyelid. The primary difference between the two is the cause behind their occurrence. While styes are caused by a bacterial infection in the oil glands of an eyelid, a chalazion is caused when the oil-producing gland of the eyelid is clogged or blocked. A stye is very painful and may make your entire eyelid swell, while a chalazion is not usually painful and rarely makes the entire eyelid swell.

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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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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. 

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Colour Blindness : Important things to know

Colour blindness is an inability to differentiate between certain colours. The condition occurs when the colour-sensitive cells in the eyes are either absent or not working the way they should. 

Colour blindness : Important things to know

As one of the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata, we share with you some useful insights on the diagnosis and treatment of colour blindness:

  • Causes of colour blindness:  When the light-sensitive cells in the retina fail to respond properly to the changes in light wavelengths, people are unable distinguish between certain colours. The lack of cones or malfunction of particular types of cones is also linked with hereditary forms of colour blindness. Besides genetics, other factors that cause colour blindness are – cataracts, eye injury, age, certain medications, optic nerve damage and exposure to harmful chemicals. . 
  • Signs and symptoms: Some people may be colour blind and still be unaware of it. If they have trouble distinguishing colours, such as traffic lights, or when reading colour-coded messages or reading materials, they become aware of the fact that they are colour blind. 
  • What does a colour blind person see? Most people with a moderate form of colour blindness are able to accurately identify 5 colours. They may have either deuteranopia (green color blindness) or protanopia (red color blindness) or tritanopia (blue-yellow color blindness).
  • Risk factors of colour blindness:                                                 The risk factors that increase the chances of colour blindness are mentioned below:
  1. Macular Degeneration
  2. Diabetes
  3. Leukaemia
  4. Glaucoma
  5. Alzheimer’s Disease
  6. Sickle Cell Anaemia
  7. Parkinson’s Disease and
  8. Regular consumption of alcohol. 
  • Diagnosis and treatment:

An eye doctor will start the diagnosis by performing a series of tests for detecting your eye condition and if or not you are suffering from colour blindness. He or she will most likely perform a thorough eye examination using specially created pictures consisting of coloured dots with different shapes or numbers hidden in them in a contrasting shade. If you’re colour blind, it’ll be difficult for you to see or identify the shapes or dots clearly. There are no definitive remedies for colour blindness unless it is due to other eye disorders or the use of certain medicines. It may be possible to improve colour vision by treating the underlying eye disease or discontinuing the use of certain medications. Contact lenses or eyewear with built-in filters are some common treatment options that the eye doctors recommend.

Consult an eye doctor if you think you’re having trouble identifying colours or if your colour vision is changing. The signs and symptoms can also be an indication of something more serious and complicated. To seek medical help at the earliest, consult the doctors of Disha Eye Hospitals. We are committed to delivering the best eye treatment in Kolkata to our patients. To book an appointment, contact us. 

Living with colour blindness: 

If you have someone in your family who has colour blindness, the following tips may help: 

  • Appropriate learning material for children:  If a child is suffering from colour blindness, the school should be informed so that appropriate learning material can be provided. 
  • Provide help: Those suffering from colour blindness should be helped tasks such as choosing clothes and choosing food items that are safe to eat. 
  • Ensure good lighting  at home: install good-quality lighting in your home to help you distinguish colours.  
  • Use technology: There many mobile phone apps available that can help identify colours.  
  • Try special tinted lenses: These lenses are worn in 1 or both eyes to help you distinguish between certain colours. They only seem to work for some people.