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Can you get a cataract twice? Check out important insights curated by some of the best eye specialists in Kolkata

One of the questions that some of our highly experienced eye specialists in Kolkata come across by cataracts patients is — whether cataracts can return? Well, the answer is no. A person cannot get a cataract twice. Once cataracts are removed, they cannot grow back. It’s important that you understand what exactly a cataract is and how it forms. 

Here we share with insights on cataracts and how you can prevent them from forming and slow its progression once it is already present in its early stages: 

Insight 1: Cataracts are a clump of proteins

A cataract forms when the proteins in your eye clump together. This clump of proteins clouds the natural lens of the eye, resulting in blurry vision. Cataracts are a normal part of ageing and progressively worsen over the years. Cataracts make it difficult to read and drive a car, especially at night.

insights on cataracts

Insight 2: Surgery only way to get rid of cataracts

The only way to remove a cataract is to undergo cataract surgery. This is a simple procedure that we offer at Disha Eye Hospitals. We offer all types of cataract surgery — phacoemulsification with foldable IOL, manual small incision cataract surgery as well as laser cataract surgery. During the surgery, the clouded natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one. At our hospital, we have well-experienced eye specialists, surgeons and pathologists. If you choose our hospital for eye treatment, be rest assured you’re in great hands!

Insight 3: Once removed, cataracts do not come back 

Once the eye’s natural lens is removed and then replaced with an artificial one, it is not possible for a cataract to develop again. The proteins inside the eye cannot clump together in an artificial lens as it is made from a special material. 

Insight 4: Cataracts are irreversible but you prevent them from worsening 

Once cataracts form in your eyes, you cannot reverse the condition without a surgery. However, there are a few things you can do to prevent them from worsening especially in the early stages: 

  1. Have regular eye check-ups: See your eye specialist regularly so he or she can keep a tab on your condition and treat problems before they become worse and more damaging.
  2. Watch your sugar levels: Cataracts develop more often in people with diabetes. If your blood sugar is too high for too long, the lens of your eye swells. Keep your sugar levels under control. 
  3. Quit smoking, if you haven’t: Smokers are at a higher risk of developing cataracts. It is best to quit smoking.
  4. Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Try to choose fruits and vegetables since they are rich in vitamins A, C and E, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin.
  5. Exercise regularly: Keeping yourself physically active boosts your eye health. It lowers the risk of developing cataracts and other eye conditions. 
  6. Wear sunglasses: The sun’s ultraviolet rays can be damaging to our eyes, even on the cloudiest of days. Wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays. 

We hope you find the above information useful! For a wealth of information on eye health, watch this space. We continuously share information on eye health-related topics. 

 

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How to Deal With a Scratched Eye

Corneal abrasion, commonly known as scratched eye, is one of the most common eye injuries. Branches, twigs, paper, dust, nail, debris, makeup brushes, etc. could lead to a scratched eye. Damaged contact lenses could also damage the cornea.

Below are some Do’s and Don’ts that may help you in dealing with the eye injury in an accurate and safe way: 

Dos: 

  • Get medical help: Severe scratches to the eye caused by flying debris, fingernails, or other sharp objects could lead to bleeding and temporary vision blurriness. In such cases, it is crucial to get your eyes thoroughly checked to lower the risk of infections. 

    If you are suffering from a scratched eye or any other eyes-related condition, visit Disha Eye hospitals, the leading eye hospital in West Bengal, for a comprehensive eye test. The easiest way is to book an appointment through http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment. 

  • Blink frequently: One of the best methods of relieving any discomfort associated with an eye scratch is to blink frequently. Doing this also helps you to get rid of tiny bits of sand and dust from your eyes. 
  • Rinse the injured eye: If a foreign object such as tiny debris or bits of sand/dust has caused the scratch, the best safety measure to take is to wash the injured eye with clean cold water. Doing this could help you flush out the foreign particle from the eyes. You could also use a saline solution as an alternative to water. 

    Don’ts: 

  • Do not touch the injured eye 

    Touching the affected eye with fingers or cotton swabs could worsen the injury by accidentally pushing the stuck foreign particle deeper into the wound. It is important to note that the particle may still be stuck in your eye but you may not get the sensation. The best option is to let an eye doctor remove the particle to avoid further worsening of the condition. 

  • Do not rub the injured eye 

    You may find it difficult to resist the urge to rub your eyes but it is crucial to not do it as your hands may pass on the germs to your eyes or you may inadvertently worsen the injury. 

  • Do not wear your contact lenses 

    In many cases, contact lenses cause minor scratches in the eyes. In that case, avoid wearing your contact lenses. Even if the eye scratch is caused by foreign particles, wearing your contact lenses can slow the healing process and increase the risk of eye infections. 

  • Tips to prevent a scratched eye

    It is not possible to completely avoid a scratched eye. However, there are various steps you can take to reduce the risks. These include:     
  • Use your contact lenses as per the instructions provided by the doctor/pharmacist 

    Depending on your eye health, the doctor or the pharmacist may provide specific instructions. For instance, your doctor may suggest you to wear your contact lenses only for a few hours in a day.

    Make sure of following the best practices such as taking the lenses off when washing your face and before you go to bed, to reduce the risk of scratches. 

  • Wear safety/protective eyeglasses 

    You stand at a greater risk of getting a scratched eye or any other eye injuries while engaging in activities such gardening, using power tools, playing sports, and cleaning, due to the presence of airborne debris. Wear a pair of protective eyeglasses when performing such activities. 

  • Wear eye makeup the safe way

In many cases, scratches in the eyes result from improper application of eye makeup. For example, you may risk scratching the front of your eye (cornea) with an eye makeup applicator (brush) if you are in a rush. 

An improper method of wearing false eyelashes could also cause one or two lashes to point inward and scratch the cornea. Always prioritise your safety when applying eye makeup. If you notice redness and experience discomfort in your eyes after wearing the makeup, cleanse it right away, and consult an eye doctor.

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What’s The Difference Between Wet & Dry Age Related Macular Degeneration?

If you are looking for differences between wet and dry age-related macular degeneration, then you might already be familiar with the term macular degeneration. In case you are not, macular degeneration refers to the deterioration of the retina’s central portion called macula. The condition leads to progressive loss of vision affecting a person’s ability to read or recognise colours. Age-related macular degeneration is classified into two types namely, wet age-related macular degeneration & dry age-related macular degeneration.

Let us take a look at how these two differ from each other

1. Dry Macular Degeneration:  Dry macular degeneration is a common eye disorder among people who are above the age of 50. It affects one eye first, eventually moving on to the other eye. It worsens the vision making it difficult to read, drive, and identify colours. Often people complain of not being able to recognise faces. As there is no cure available for macular degeneration, early detection and self-care measures may help delay the progression and severity of the condition. Dry macular degeneration is more common than wet macular degeneration, and is less severe than the latter. Dry macular degeneration progresses to wet macular degeneration if the blood vessels under the retina leak.

Symptoms of dry macular degeneration 

 

  • As dry macular degeneration affects retina’s central portion, it reduces the central vision which is necessary for reading, driving, and recognising faces
  • Visuals appear distorted
  • Reading or closer work like sewing requires extra light
  • Printed words appear to be blurred
  • Brightness of colours appears less intense
  • Difficulty in recognising faces

Causes of dry macular degeneration 

As of now the exact cause of dry macular degeneration is not known. Research indicates it may be linked to a combination of several heredity and environmental factors. Smoking and diet may have a role to play.

2. Wet macular degeneration: Wet macular degeneration is a chronic eye disorder that blocks central vision when blood vessels leak liquid into the retina’s central portion called macula. This condition usually starts with dry macular degeneration. It appears suddenly, and worsens rapidly. It affects the central vision but does not affect the peripheral vision. Therefore, it rarely causes total blindness. Though some of the symptoms of wet macular degeneration are same as that of dry macular degeneration, wet macular degeneration’s symptoms appear abruptly and worsen rapidly.

Symptoms of wet macular degeneration 

  • Distorted vision
  • Colours appear less bright
  • Central vision in one or both the eye seems reduced
  • An appearance of blurry spot or blind spot in the field of vision
  • Overall vision seems to be hazy

Causes of wet macular degeneration

If you notice any changes in your central vision and your ability to see colours and fine details are weakened, see an eye doctor at the earliest. These symptoms may be the first indication of macular degeneration, especially if you are above the age of 50.

When to see an eye doctor?

If you notice any changes in your central vision and ability to see colours and fine details seem weakened, visit your nearest eye hospital at the earliest. These symptoms may be the first indication of macular degeneration, especially if you are above the age of 50.

Book an online appointment at Disha Eye Hospitals

For any kind of eye problems, consult the best eye specialists at Disha Eye Hospital, one of the leading eye hospitals in West Bengal.

Disha offers one of the best treatments for diabetic retinopathy in Kolkata. Disha Eye Hospital also offers treatment for glaucoma, cataract, squint and corneal diseases. To book an appointment online, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment.

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Disorders Associated With Eye Floaters

Do tiny spots drift before your eyes? Do these spots appear clearer when looking at plain surfaces like a white wall or the sky? If the answer is yes, then you must visit an eye specialist at the soonest. These spots may be seemingly harmless as they do not interfere with your vision, but it is best that we do not ignore the possibility of an underlying eye condition. These spots are called eye floaters. They may appear like spots, or cobwebs. You might see them moving across as, and when, you move your eyes. As we have already stated, in some instances, eye floaters are not harmful whereas in some, they could be a symptom of an eye condition.

Some of the common conditions that may lead you to see eye floaters: 

  • Diabetic retinopathy: diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that usually occurs in people who are diabetic. High blood sugar level damages the small blood vessels of the body, including the eyes. Uncontrolled blood sugar could cause blockage of the retinal blood vessels causing blurred vision. If medical treatment is not sought in time, it could lead to serious sight-threatening complications. As it is a progressive disease, the symptoms will worsen with time. Eye floaters, blurred vision, and difficult night-vision are some of the common symptoms. Linking you to a useful read that will help you in understanding more about diabetic retinopathy 
  • Retinal detachment:  this is an emergency situation and medical attention must be sought at the earliest. The retina is the tissue at the back of the eye. When this tissue pulls away from its position, the condition is referred to as retinal detachment. If eye floaters are suddenly visible in front of your eyes, then you must rush to an eye hospital. If the retina is not put back in its place, it could lead to loss of vision. 
  • Nearsightedness: We see floaters as we grow old. People who are nearsighted, or who have had cataract surgery may experience eye floaters more frequently. A small number of floaters is not a cause of worry but it is always advisable to get them diagnosed by an eye doctor. However, the appearance of eye floaters with flashes is treated as a medical emergency. 
  • Posterior uveitis: uveitis is an eye inflammation that affects the middle layer of tissue in the eyewall. When the inflammation is at the back of your eyes, it is called posterior uveitis. With early diagnosis and treatment of the condition, you could prevent complications and preserve your vision. When suffering from posterior uveitis, along with seeing eye floaters, you will also experience pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision and redness in the eye. 

Eye Floaters Treatment 

The treatment of eye floaters may vary according to the cause. If your eye floaters affect your vision, then an ophthalmologist may suggest laser treatment. Using a laser, the eye doctor will break the eye floaters and make them less noticeable. In some cases, surgery might be performed to remove eye floaters. However, not all floaters can be removed, and it is possible for new floaters to appear. 

If you are seeing eye floaters, visit Disha Eye Hospitals, or book an online appointment with our eye specialists. Our eye care team will carry out an accurate diagnosis of your problem. We offer treatment for different types of eye conditions and diseases. We have branches in Kolkata, Barrackpore, Siliguri, and other parts of West Bengal. 

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5 Things to Know about Subconjunctival Haemorrhage

Most eye conditions such as eye strain, dry eyes, glaucoma, and uveitis are accompanied by persisting pain and blurriness in vision. However, subconjunctival haemorrhage does not cause such common symptoms.

If you notice significant redness in your eyes, make sure to get medical help as it can signal the presence of an eye condition. Get your eyes checked at any of our eye hospitals in West Bengal. We are a team of highly-experienced eye specialists who can diagnose the condition and suggest the right course of action. Book an appointment online at http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment

A few important points on subconjunctival haemorrhage, to raise awareness about the eye condition:

1) Ruptures in blood vessels lead to the onset of the condition
Subconjunctival haemorrhage occurs when blood vessels in the conjunctiva, the outermost protective coating of the eyeball, rupture. When the eye is inflamed, blood vessels, some of which are very small and delicate and often invisible, become larger and leak. This results in subconjunctival haemorrhage.

There are several factors that can damage the delicate blood vessels. These include:

  • Injury: Serious physical impact to the eyes can damage the delicate blood vessels and lead to blood leakage.
  • Impaired blood clotting function: In rare cases, impaired blood clotting function (caused mainly due to Vitamin K deficiency) can be the cause. Due to Vitamin K deficiency, the micro tears in the blood vessels may not clot and lead to eye redness.
  • Increased blood pressure: Certain factors, such as constipation, coughing, wheezing, and heavy lifting can increase the blood pressure which, in turn, can cause the blood vessels to rupture and leak.

2) Subconjunctival haemorrhage looks frightening
The sight of eyes that are fully red in the white part may appear frightening. The eye condition so to speak, is not as painful as it appears to be. You may not even know you have subconjunctival haemorrhage until you discover in the mirror that the white part of your eyes is bright red.

However, in some cases, the eye condition may be accompanied by slight discomfort due to a scratched sensation. Other than the bloody appearance, there are rarely any symptoms associated with subconjunctival haemorrhage.

3) Complications of subconjunctival haemorrhage
In most cases, subconjunctival haemorrhage does not lead to any serious complications, but it needs to be treated. For example, if the leakage in the blood vessels is caused by an eye injury, it is crucial to get the eyes checked for corneal or retinal damages. Serious impact on the eyes can also lead to vision blurriness and/or dimness apart from causing blood-shot eyes.

The same goes for cases of subconjunctival haemorrhage resulting from the use of blood thinners.

If eye discharge is associated with redness in the eye, it is important to get a comprehensive eye check-up to determine whether a viral or a bacterial infection is causing the symptom.

4) Treatment options for subconjunctival haemorrhage
Subconjunctival haemorrhage is the type of eye condition that disappears on its own. Mostly, the accumulated blood in the eyes takes 7 to 15 days to clear up. Initially, the colour of the bloodshot eyes is bright red.

The trapped blood develops a yellowish tinge when it starts to clear out. The blood vessels take a longer time to clot if you are taking blood thinning medicines or have Vitamin K deficiency.

The eye doctor may prescribe you eye drops that lubricate and soothe the eyes. It is important to note that eye drops do not help in the recovery of the damaged blood vessels. The tests they perform, mainly deals with ruling out any serious cause like diabetic retinopathy.

5) Prevention of subconjunctival haemorrhage
In cases where the cause is identifiable, it is important to make necessary changes to lower the risks. For example, if the subconjunctival haemorrhage is stemming from eye trauma, it is important to avoid rubbing your eyes and wearing safety eye gear when stepping outdoors to lower the risk.