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Swimming Pool Eye Safety Tips by Some of the Best Eye Doctors in Kolkata

The water used in swimming pools contain chlorine and other chemicals to eliminate germs and algae. These chemicals can irritate the eye, making them more vulnerable to infections. Here are some common problems people face after swimming in the pool: 

best eye doctor

  • Red eyes
  • Burning sensation 
  • Discharge from the eyes
  • Corneal abrasion
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Swelling of the eyes
  • Excessive tears 
  • Light sensitivity

To avoid eye problems caused due to pool water, our eye doctors in Kolkata have put together a list of swimming pool eye safety tips:

1. Wear good swimming goggles: 

This is one of the most effective ways to protect your eyes from any infection. Buy good-quality swimming goggles. Before buying swimming goggles, make sure you try them on. The reason why swimming goggles leak is because they don’t fit well. While buying make sure they properly fit your head and the eyes.

2. Remove contact lenses when swimming: 

Wearing contact lenses while swimming can be dangerous. The lenses can absorb the water. This can cause bacteria, viruses or other pathogens to get into your eyes. Swimming in lakes, rivers and oceans can be all the more dangerous than swimming in a pool as the water may contain more bacteria, viruses and other harmful pathogens.

3. Apply lubricating eye drops for dry eyes: 

If you suffer from dry eyes, use prescribed eye drops or tear gel that help in keeping the eye moist. These drops and gels help protect the tear film and prevent entry of bacteria and infectants in the eye. Consult an eye doctor for suitable eye drops or gels.

Note :  Dry eyes is an increasing problem where the eyes don’t produce enough tears or tears are of a poor quality and hence can’t provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. 

4. Wash your eyes with clean water after swimming: 

This is one of the most important things that people often forget to do. Washing your eyes with clean water after swimming helps in removing chlorine and other chemicals that may be stuck to your eyelashes or eyelids. Always close your eyes before splashing fresh water onto them.

5. Wear sunglasses: 

Wearing sunglasses is a good way of protecting your eyes from the UV rays. Wear swimming goggles when swimming and sunglasses when not swimming by the pool. This is because UV rays can damage your eyes. 

6. Cold compress eyes if irritated: 

After swimming if you are feeling irritation or are developing symptoms of an eye problem, try applying cold compress on your eyes. If this does not help, it is best to consult an eye doctor without wasting time. 

Note: Staying hydrated is one of the most important things for swimmers.  Stay hydrated before, while swimming and after. This is because swimming burns a lot of calories and also results in quick loss of water. Dehydration while swimming can cause muscle fatigue, cramps and dizziness. Reduction in water level of the body can also result in dry eyes and can lead to sunken eyes.

Are you looking for the best eye doctor in Kolkata? 

If you are suffering from any eye-related problems, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have some of the best eye doctors in Kolkata on board. Our eye doctors can not only help you get the right diagnosis of your symptoms but also guide you with the right treatment options. Our eye doctors have access to the latest diagnostic and imaging tools  to diagnose the cause of your problem.

 

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Wrong Eyeglass Prescription: Check These Warning Signs

Eyeglasses are the most effective and affordable way to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. 

Eyeglasses are easy to handle and one of the most comfortable vision-correcting methods. Wearing prescribed eyeglasses have many advantages such as:

  • Improved vision
  • Better eye protection
  • Cost-effective 
  • Easy to maintain

However, if you do not have the right prescription for eyeglasses, it might lead to uncomfortable symptoms. As one of the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata, we share with you you some of the warning signs that may indicate that the eyeglasses you are wearing the wrong prescription: 

 

  • Frequent headaches: This is one of the first signs that you will observe if you are wearing the wrong prescription glasses or contact lenses. When you have a new prescription, you may experience frequent headaches a few days after wearing new glasses. However, the headaches may disappear when you take them off. In case of a wrong prescription, the eyes will strain along with a headache. In both cases, you must visit an eye doctor and get the prescription changed.

 

  • Vertigo: Normal dizziness can be cured within hours but vertigo is much more aggressive than dizziness. Vertigo gives you a feeling of being unbalanced while standing or sitting. This condition needs medical attention. It can be caused due to blurred vision. But if you already have this condition, the wrong prescription will only worsen the situation. Vertigo can affect depth perception. Without depth perception, you are at the risk of injuring yourself.  

 

  • Blurred vision: Blurred vision after prescribed corrective glasses can also mean the adjustment of the eyes to new lenses. This will get corrected after a few days but if the blurriness continues, you must visit the eye doctor to get the prescription correct. A wrong prescription may lead to further eye issues.

 

  • Eye fatigue: When you start feeling eye fatigue after the prescribed new glasses, this might be a sign that the prescription is wrong. 

Looking for an eye specialist in Kolkata? 

If you are experiencing any eye-related problem, get your eyes checked by an eye specialist. We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have some of the best eye specialists in Kolkata on board. We offer quality eye care at an affordable price.

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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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Children’s Eye Health: Important Insights Curated By Some of The Best Eye Doctors in Kolkata

Did you know a newborn’s eyesight is between 20/200 and 20/400 at birth? Their eyes are so sensitive to bright light after their birth that they are more likely to open their eyes in low light. 

Children learn through their eyes. To read, to write, and to play – kids need healthy vision. Therefore, you should pay attention to your child’s eye health and look for signs that you may think can cause problems. 

Experts say the best ways to monitor a child’s eye health are:

  • Looking for symptoms
  • Make your child undergo regular eye exams 
  • Provide appropriate diet

Here we share with you important insights on children’s eye health: curated by some of the best eye doctors in Kolkata

1. Infants can see when they are born but they cannot focus accurately: Babies’ vision at birth is abuzz with visual stimulations. Their eyes don’t always focus accurately in the beginning. It is only by the time they are two months old, a baby can easily focus on the people or objects close to them.

Fact: Smoking when pregnant can harm a baby’s vision. It increases the risk for premature births, and further leads to higher refractive errors and problems with the retina of the baby.
2. Far and short-sightedness: Easily treated with prescription spectacles, , far and short-sightedness conditions often run in families.

Far-sightedness: People with farsightedness have a difficult time focusing their eyes on objects that are close. For instance, people with farsightedness may find it difficult to read words written in a book.

Short-sightedness: Short-sightedness is a common eye condition that causes faraway objects to appear blurred. Objects that are near can be seen clearly. 

Did you know? Myopia or nearsightedness has a higher incidence in school going children in India, especially in urban school-going children from  11 to 15 years of age. 

3. Lazy eye and squint: A fairly common eye problem in India, lazy eye condition is clinically known as amblyopia. It is when one of the eyes of the child does not develop as it should. If the child is treated sooner, it is more likely that they have a good vision.

4. Colour blindness: You would be surprised to know that 1 in 12 men and 1 in 200 women have colour vision problems. They find it difficult to distinguish between red, green and yellow. If you suspect your kid to have colour deficiency vision, or if there is any family history related to it, take your child to the optometrist. Although there is no way to cure or prevent this condition, knowing about the problem can help you teach your child to use colours appropriately.

When should parents take their children for a full eye examination? 

An eye test is important when:  

  • A child has any special needs
  • There is a history of eye problems such as colour blindness or lazy eye in the family 
  • The family member wore spectacles when they were children 

What are the signs of eye problems you should look for in your child?

Look for the following signs of eye problems in your child: 

  • They rub their eyes a lot
  • They have watery eyes
  • They have poor hand and eye coordination
  • The child avoids reading, writing or drawing
  • They complain about blurred vision
  • They sit very close to the TV

 

Looking for the best eye doctor in Kolkata?

To consult the best eye doctor in Kolkata for children, visit Disha Eye Hospitals or book online consultation. We have a dedicated paediatric ophthalmology department that takes care of all the paediatric eye problems, be it squint, strabismus or amblyopia. From visual acuity tests to surgical procedures, Disha Eye Hospitals offer affordable eye care.  

 

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Useful insights on blue light

Blue light is a part of the visible light spectrum; it can come from digital devices, fluorescent lighting solutions, and of course, the sun. Researchers have found that exposure to blue light at night from phones can disrupt your ability to fall asleep as blue light suppresses the secretion of melatonin, a hormone that tells us when it is time to sleep. In addition to disrupting sleep, blue light can lead to retinal stress, which can cause an early onset of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).  As one of the best eye hospitals in Kolkata,  we have curated a list of useful insights on blue light and its effect on our health: 

Useful insights on blue light

  1. Blue light affects sleep cycle: Exposure to artificial blue light closer to bedtime can disrupt the circadian rhythm —- internal process that regulates the sleep–wake cycle. During the day, blue light from the sun has been found to help people stay focused and alert. It also boosts memory and cognitive functions. However, when a person is exposed to blue light in the evening hours, the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone, is suppressed. Harvard researchers conducted an experiment where they compared the effects in people who were exposed to 6.5 hours of blue light versus 6,5 hours of green light. It was found that blue light suppresses melatonin for about twice as long as the green light.
  2. Blue light may cause eye strain: Often many people experience discomfort after looking at digital screens. This is called digital eye strain. When looking at screens, people often blink less. Blinking keeps the eyes moistened and cleans the surface of the eyes of any debris or dirt. When one blinks less, the eyes dry up which can lead to irritated and dry eyes. The best way to protect the eyes against digital strain is to take frequent breaks and blink more often.
  3. Use devices on night mode:  Digital devices come with a night mode that reduces screen brightness, which can reduce eye strain. The night mode reduces glare and helps your eyes adjust to the surrounding light.
  4. You get more blue light exposure from the sun than any other source: People often associate blue light with digital devices whereas the largest source of harmful blue light is sunlight. A study found that higher levels of  sun exposure in teenage and early adult years were associated with early age related macular degeneration. To protect your eyes from the harmful effects of the blue light, wear sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB light. Also, it is important to wear sunglasses throughout the year , even during winters. Here is a useful read on choosing the right types of sunglasses for your eyes. 

If despite cutting back on your screen time and exposure to bright light the eye strain persists, see an eye doctor to find out the causes and the solutions to protect your vision. If you are searching for the best eye hospital in Kolkata and other cities in West Bengal, visit the nearest branch of Disha Eye Hospitals. You can also book an online consultation. 

 

 

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8 Causes of Peripheral Vision Loss

Peripheral vision loss is the loss of side vision. Peripheral vision helps you see the surrounding objects without turning your head or moving your eyes. It also helps you sense motion and lets you carry various activities such as running, walking, and driving without crashing into anything. To understand more about peripheral vision, let us first give you a brief insight on the retina. 

8 Causes of Peripheral Vision Loss

2 types of cells in the retina 

There are 2 types of light-sensitive cells in the retina: rods and cones. The cones help us see colour and are concentrated in a small central area of the retina called the macula. Rods are responsible for peripheral and night vision. Loss of peripheral vision or tunnel vision typically results from eye conditions that inhibit the normal functioning of the rods. 

Symptoms of peripheral vision loss – when to see an eye specialist? 

When people suffer from moderate to severe peripheral vision loss, they feel as if they are looking down a narrow tube. Some of the other symptoms of peripheral vision loss include: 

  1. Poor night vision
  2. Blind spots
  3. Eye pain
  4. Headaches 
  5. Nausea
  6. Increased or decreased light sensitivity
  7. Change in the size of the pupils 
  8. Seeing glare around lights

If you are noticing any of these symptoms, book an appointment with an eye doctor in Kolkata. 

What causes peripheral vision loss?

Loss of peripheral vision may be the result of:

  1. Glaucoma: It is one of the most common causes of peripheral vision loss. Glaucoma causes elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Extremely high IOP results in optic nerve damage, which leads to a loss of side vision. People suffering from diabetes are at an increased risk of suffering from Glaucoma. Hence, it is important for Diabetics to visit their eye doctors regularly. If you are a diabetic and searching for the best eye doctor in Kolkata,  check our list of eye doctors – they are some of the best names in Kolkata. From reputed eye surgeons to the best retina specialist doctors in Kolkata, we have some of the leading names in our team. 
  2. Eye Stroke or Retinal Artery Occlusion: Eye strokes are caused by clots or narrowing of your retina’s blood vessels. When the blood flow to the retina is interrupted, it can result in various vision problems, including peripheral vision loss and even total vision loss. 
  3. Retinitis pigmentosa: It refers to a group of rare eye conditions caused by genetic mutations. These conditions are inherited genetically and affect the retina, resulting in night blindness, tunnel vision, and other vision problems.
  4. Cataracts:  It is a buildup of proteins in the lens, forming protein clumps. In many cases, cataract starts damaging the lens from the edges leading to peripheral vision loss. 
  5. Optic Nerve Atrophy: When the optic nerve is damaged it can affect your central vision, peripheral vision, and color vision. 
  6. Retinal Detachment: It is a painless yet serious condition that occurs when the retina separates from the back of your eye. It can be caused by tears or holes in the retina, an inflammatory disorder, Coats’ disease, or the contraction of scar tissue on the retina’s surface. Over time a detached retina can cause loss of peripheral vision. 
  7. Ocular Migraine: They happen when the blood flow to the eye is restricted. Someone who is suffering from ocular migraines can experience peripheral vision loss and other visual disturbances for a short period of time. 
  8. Papilledema: Swelling of the optic disc, called papilledema, can lead to vision problems including loss of side vision. 

How to test peripheral vision? 

Your eye doctor will perform a visual field test to check how much you can see out of the corners of your eyes. This is a simple, painless, and non-invasive procedure. 

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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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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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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.