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Blurred Vision FAQs

Blurred Vision FAQs

Blurred vision could simply indicate that you need to update your eyeglass/contact lens prescription. However, in some cases, the eyesight problem can signal something more serious.

If you are experiencing blurred vision, you can visit Disha Eye Hospital, one of the top eye hospitals in Kolkata, and consult an eye specialist to properly diagnose the problem. For booking an appointment, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/appointment.

The FAQs listed below can help you get a clear idea about the eyesight problem, and learn about the causes and treatment options:

1) Who can get the blurry vision?

Unlike other eye complications, blurry vision is not age-specific. Therefore, anybody (from young children to older adults) can experience blurred vision. However, visit an eye doctor if you experience blurriness, haziness, and dimness as it could be the symptom of a serious eye problem.

2) What causes blurry vision?

Refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, presbyopia, and astigmatism, are the primary causes of blurry vision. However, the eyesight problem can be a symptom of sight-threatening eye complication as well.

3) What are the eye disorders in which vision blurriness occur as a symptom?

There’s a list of eye disorders in which vision blurriness can occur as a symptom. These eye disorders include:

  • Dry eyes
  • Glaucoma
  • Cataracts
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Age-related macular degeneration
  • Double vision
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Corneal abrasion
  • Strabismus
  • Uveitis
  • Keratitis
  • Corneal ulcer

4) Is vision blurriness a symptom of other health complications?

Yes. Apart from eye disorders, vision blurriness can be a symptom of other health complications as well, some of which include, stroke, high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, and migraines. Women who are pregnant can also experience blurriness in their vision.

5) Does blurry vision occur in just one eye or both?

Vision blurriness can affect both eyes. In some cases, people may experiment with the eyesight problem just in one eye.

6) Is blurred vision temporary or permanent?

This entirely depends upon the cause. For example, if you are experiencing blurred vision due to refractive error ( which means that the shape of your eye does not bend light correctly which leads to blurred vision), then the symptoms can improve after updating your vision aid (eyeglasses, contact lens) or going for a LASIK surgery. However, if it’s caused by a serious eye disorder such as cataract, then failing to properly treat the disease can worsen the symptoms, eventually leading to blindness.

7) What are the complications of blurred vision?

Blurred vision can make your daily tasks such as driving, reading, cooking, and working on a computer challenging.

8) How is blurred vision diagnosed?

An eye doctor diagnoses blurred vision through an eye chart test. He/she can also conduct a slit-lamp examination. But prior to proceeding with the tests, the doctor will review the medical history to get a fair assessment on the potential causes.

9) Lasik Surgery for blurred vision

If the refractive error is the cause for your blurred vision, then LASIK surgery is the most effective treatment option.

To know more about the LASIK surgery at Disha Eye Hospital visit http://www.dishaeye.org/lasik-refractive-surgery. Get an expert eye consultation and avail an effective treatment at affordable costs.

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Are you Suffering from Eye Infection? Check out for These Symptoms

Are you suffering from eye infection? Check out for these symptoms

There are different types of eye infections and their symptoms differ accordingly. If you have been experiencing any of the symptoms that are mentioned here, consult an eye specialist immediately:

1) Severe redness in the inner eyelid of the white part of the eyes:-

Severe redness in the eyes is commonly associated with Conjunctivitis (aka Pinkeye). It is basically inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin and clear layer of tissue in the white part of the eyes.

There are several reasons why conjunctivitis happens. Some of them include – parasites, fungi, reaction to eyedrops, and exposure to irritants such as swimming pool chlorine water, smoke, and dirt.

2) Decreased vision and eye pain:-

Decreased vision and eye pain are the two major symptoms of Keratitis, inflammation of the cornea. Exposure to contaminated water, viruses, contaminated contact lenses, and physical eye injuries such as scratches are the common causes of Keratitis.

If left untreated, Keratitis can lead to corneal swelling, corneal ulcers, and blindness. There are two types of Keratitis: Infectious and Non-infectious Keratitis; the treatment options vary accordingly.

3) Foreign body sensation in the cornea:-

Sensation of foreign body (or a feeling that something’s stuck) in the cornea is a classic symptom of corneal ulcer. Corneal ulcer is characterised by an open sore that forms on the cornea.

Viral eye infections, including Herpes Simplex Keratitis, Acanthamoeba Keratitis, and Fungal Keratitis, are the common causes of corneal ulcer. Common symptoms of Corneal Ulcer include white spots on the cornea, blurred vision, sore eyes, and excessive tearing. For treatment, eye doctors usually prescribe antiviral, antibacterial, or antifungal eye medication.

4) Floaters and/or spots in the field of vision:-

Seeing floaters and/or spots in the field of vision are generally related to Uveitis – inflammation of the middle layer of the eye caused by a range of conditions. Physical eye injury and bacterial and viral infections are the common causes of Uveitis.

Different types of Uveitis include Anterior Uveitis, Pan-uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, and Intermediate Uveitis. The most common type of Uveitis is inflammation of the iris. The treatment for Uveitis depends upon its type. Lack of proper treatment for the eye infection can increase the risk of retinal edema, glaucoma, and cataracts.

5) Eyelid swelling and frequent tearing:-

If you have a swollen eyelid accompanied by pain and frequent tears, you may be suffering from Sty (aka Stye). It’s a painful lump that grows in the edge of the eyelid. Although a Sty commonly forms on the outer part of the eyelids, it can form on the inner part of the eyelids as well.

Apart from eyelid swelling and frequent tears, other symptoms, including severe eyelid pain and eye redness. Although a sty can go on its own, you can take extra measures such as gently massaging the swollen area with a soft piece of cloth soaked in warm water. This will help the infected area heal faster.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit the nearest Disha Eye Hospital.

Get a proper eye diagnosis at Disha Eye Hospital – a reputed eye hospital in West Bengal

At Disha Eye Hospital, we have a team of some of the finest eye specialists in all over West Bengal. Consult our doctors and plan the treatment option that’s best for you. Visit us to learn more at http://www.dishaeye.org.

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7 Facts on Low Vision

 

7 Facts on Low Vision


People suffering from low vision may not only face difficulty seeing things around them but also stand at an increased risk of serious vision complications. Over here we discuss useful facts to help you know more about low vision:

1)  Different types of low vision:-

There are different types of low vision. The common ones include:

  • Blurred vision – lack of clarity in near and distant vision.


  • Night blindness – difficulty in seeing during nighttime and in poorly lit places such as theatres.


  • Hazy vision – dim field of vision.


  • Loss of peripheral vision – loss of vision on either sides and above and below the eye level.


  • Loss of central vision – a blind spot in the centre of the field of vision.


2)  Low vision is the result of a variety of eye conditions and/or injuries:-

People suffering from eye conditions such as Glaucoma, Cancer of the eye, Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, Diabetes, and Eye trauma can develop low vision as their condition progresses over time.

3) Knowing when to get an eye exam:-

If you notice changes in your vision and experience symptoms such as nearsightedness, or farsightedness, it’s best to consult an eye doctor to start early treatment and lower the risk of further vision complications.

One of the ways to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness is getting a LASIK surgery done. Know more about Disha’s LASIK surgery department visit http://www.dishaeye.org/lasik-refractive-surgery

4) “Low vision” is a term used by eye care professionals:-

“Low vision” is a term widely used by eye care professionals to describe visual impairment which cannot be corrected by eye surgery, medicine, contact lenses, and standard glasses.

5) Living with low vision:-

Although low vision creates difficulties in doing everyday tasks, people suffering from the eye condition can maintain or regain their quality of life by taking different measures such as regularly following up with the doctor, joining support groups, using the visual aid(s) prescribed by the eye doctor.

6) The degree of sight loss in low vision can vary:-

The degree of sight loss in a person with low vision can depend upon the nature and severity of the existing eye condition. Age can be another important determining factor.

7) Diagnosis of low vision:-

Eye doctors conduct a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose the eye condition. During eye check-up for low vision, the eye doctor may test your visual fields, depth perception, and visual acuity using special charts and magnifiers.

Get your eyes diagnosed & start early treatment at Disha Eye Hospital for a better tomorrow

At Disha Eye Hospital, we use modern medical technologies and equipment to ensure precise diagnosis and effective treatment. What separates us apart from others is our zest to provide affordable eye treatment to ensure better eye health of people from all walks of life. Learn more about our services at http://www.dishaeye.org.

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How to Take Care of Your Eyes During Monsoons?

Monsoon brings that much-needed respite from hot and sticky summer months. But the season also brings viral eye infections that can take a toll on your eye health. Luckily, taking good care of your eye can be easy and for your convenience, we’ve listed some of the ways how to go about it:

1) Avoid rainwater in your eyes:-

We all love that guilty pleasure of getting drenched in monsoon rains at least once. However, doing this can put you at the risk of viral eye infection. How? Although rainwater may appear to be clean, it can carry a host of germs, and even pick up atmospheric pollutants and microbes as it falls down

When travelling in rain, wear a clear lens eyewear to avoid splashes of rainwater getting into your eyes. If rainwater accidentally enters into your eyes, then dry your eyes immediately. Best would be to wash them with clean water. If you experience persistent irritation and blurriness, consult an eye doctor.

Contact us for an appointment here http://www.dishaeye.org/contact-us

2) Take care of your eyewear:-

It’s a common monsoon scenario when your eyeglasses get wet and blurred when travelling during rainy days. Make sure to carry a piece of dry and soft cloth with you to clean your eyeglass every time it gets wet.

Remember not to use your handkerchief to clean your eyeglass as it can contain germs that can lead to eye infection.

3) Wash your hands frequently:-

Make sure you wash your hands frequently as you can unknowingly touch your eyes. Wash your hands before cleaning your contact lenses to avoid transmitting infection-causing germs. You can even carry a hand sanitiser along with you when travelling.

4) Think twice before self-medicating:-

We often underestimate our eye symptoms and resort to self-medication. However, this is a bad practice as doing so can put you at the risk of serious eye problems. If you experience unusual symptoms such as blurriness, itchiness, and eye pain, avoid using OTC (over the counter) medicines. Instead, consult an eye doctor for an accurate diagnosis of the symptoms.

You can visit Disha Eye Hospital for a proper eye diagnosis. Being one of the best eye hospitals in West Bengal, we provide quality eye care at affordable pricing. At Disha, our main aim is to provide the best eye care to people from all walks of life. Learn more at http://www.dishaeye.org.

5) Don’t share personal belongings:-

Dust particles during dust storms when come in contact with your eyes can cause symptoms such as irritation and blurriness. Make sure you stay indoors during a dust storm. If you have to be outdoors, either use a protective eyewear or carry a sunglass along with you.

6) Take precautions during dust storms:-

Dust particles during dust storms when come in contact with your eyes can cause symptoms such as irritation and blurriness. Make sure you stay indoors during a dust storm. If you have to be outdoors, either use a protective eyewear or carry a sunglass along with you.

7)Take precaution with eye makeup:-

Make sure you avoid using eye makeup past their expiry date. Also, store your eye makeup in a cool and dry place to lower the risk of accumulation and growth of bacteria and viruses.

8) Avoid contact with people who are already affected:–

If you have to spend time with people who have a viral eye infection such as conjunctivitis, make sure to avoid direct contact to lower the risks. Also, avoid sharing personal belongings with people suffering from eye infections. Always use a hand sanitizer.

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Tips for Living With Glaucoma

 

Tips for Living With Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the most common eye diseases as it affects millions of people worldwide. The eye disease is common in older adults. It involves build-up of pressure in the eyes and impairment of vision.

Glaucoma can affect the quality of life as patients face discomfort and difficulty in doing regular activities with deteriorating vision.

Do you have Glaucoma? Here are the essential tips for living with the eye disease:

Coping with changing vision:-

As Glaucoma starts to worsen, it affects the vision. Low vision is one of the most common symptoms of the eye disease. Low vision can hamper the quality of life as it can cause difficulty in doing everyday work such as reading, working on a computer, driving, cooking, etc. In most cases, patients aren’t able to cope with low vision caused by Glaucoma even by wearing prescription glasses or contact lenses.

The best way to cope with low vision is to use visual aids or visit the best eye care hospitals in Kolkata for glaucoma treatment. There are a number of visual aids available including colours lenses, magnifiers, and computer text enlargers. Talk with your doctor to choose the visual aid that best suits you.

Getting organized:-

Getting organised is the key to dealing with vision changes caused by Glaucoma. It’s important to designate a specific place for every item. For instance, keep the keys, medicines, and your purse in a specific place where you have no difficulty reaching for them. It’s highly important that other members of the family respect and maintain the organisation system.

Marking and labeling items:-

Glaucoma patients with low vision face a great deal of difficulty working with specific items such as washing machine, microwave oven, etc. If you are on the same track, use a dimensional fabric paint to mark everyday items to feel the correct positions with your fingers.

Label your medicines with a highlighter to properly store them and have no difficulty finding them.

Improving lighting:-

One of the most important changes to make for dealing with low vision caused by glaucoma is to improve lighting in the home. Make sure that your home is properly illuminated. Use additional lights while working on a specific task. Also, improve lighting in rooms such as kitchen, hallway, and bathroom where there are risks hazards. When your home is properly illuminated, dealing with low vision becomes much easier.

Increasing contrast:-

Increasing contrast in every item helps you to better cope with low vision. For instance, use a white cup for your tea and coffee, use white chop boards for dark coloured vegetables. Increasing contrast is the key to effectively dealing with vision changes.

Listening to audiobooks:-

Googling all of your concerns can be a difficult task when you have low vision caused by glaucoma. This is where Audiobooks come as a great help as you don’t have to rely on your vision while taking in information.

Choose Glaucoma treatment in Kolkata at a reputed eye hospital:-

Do you or your loved ones suffer from Glaucoma? Opt for a professional treatment at Disha Eye Hospital as it is one of the best eye hospitals in India. The team of eye care experts provides meticulous care when it comes to addressing proper treatment not just for Glaucoma but for other major eye diseases as well.

Learn more about Disha Eye Hospital at http://www.dishaeye.org.

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8 Questions on Cataract Surgery

8 Questions on Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision loss all over the world. Fortunately with, advances in medical science, the eye disease can be treated through a specialised surgery known as cataract surgery.

Although cataract surgery is the sole treatment option for the eye disease, there are confusions and misconceptions about it. Here, we seek to clarify them by these 8 commonly asked questions:

1)  How is cataract surgery performed?

Before the surgery day, the doctor will give you medicines to relax you and numb your eyes. The doctor uses a local anaesthetic which makes the surgery virtually painless. The first part of the surgery involves removing the clouded lens. To do this, the surgeon, with the help of precision tools, makes a small incision in the eye to remove the natural lens. The surgeon will use the same incision to place the artificial (intraocular) lens. To get the best cataract surgery in Kolkata, contact Disha – Best Eye Hospital in West Bengal.

2) What is the success rate of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgeries have a high success rate. In fact, cataract surgeries are one of the most successful surgeries performed the world over. It’s because of the high success rate of cataract surgery that it is chosen as the sole treatment option for cataracts.

3) How do I determine whether cataract surgery will benefit me?

There are several ways how you can benefit from a cataract surgery. First, the eye surgery is a quick procedure and can be completed within 2 hours. Plus, you don’t have to get admitted to the hospital as it’s required with other surgeries.

By undergoing a cataract surgery, not only is your eye disease treated but you also have your vision corrected. Lastly, the recovery period for a cataract surgery is quite short. It may take you as less as a week to fully recover.

4) Are there any side effects of a cataract surgery? 

After the surgery, you may experience itchiness, slight discomfort, and redness. But these effects only last for a couple of hours and eventually subside. Your eye doctor may suggest you tips to fully take care of the operated eye(s) post-surgery.

5) What is phaco?

Phaco, or Phacolemulsification is a technique used during a cataract surgery. In this technique, the eye surgeon makes a small incision to insert a tiny ultrasonic probe. The doctor uses the probe to break cataracts into tiny pieces. The next step involves removing the tiny pieces using a suction. After the cataracts are completely removed, the doctor inserts the intraocular lens.

6) What is an intraocular lens?

Intraocular lens is a small convex-shaped lens and is harmless to the eyes. Apart from being an alternative to the natural, clouded lens, intraocular lens also helps correct vision. Once the intraocular lens is placed during the cataract surgery, it does not move and remains in the eye permanently. There are several types of intraocular lens and your eye doctor can choose the best lens for you.

7) Is it true that I have to wait for my cataract to become ripe in order to undergo a cataract surgery?

Previous cataract removal methods involved heavy sedation and making large incisions so that the entire affected lens could be wholly removed from the capsular bag. As such, ripe cataracts would make the removal process easier.

But with technological advancements, modern-day cataract surgeries require a small incision and minimal sedation as the lens is suctioned out. In other words, you don’t have to wait for your cataracts to become ripe for undergoing a cataract surgery.

8) Where can I opt for a safe and quality cataract surgery in West Bengal?

If you or someone in your family is planning to undergo a cataract surgery, then our advice would be to get a precise diagnosis at Disha Eye Hospital, one of the best eye hospitals in West Bengal.

After a comprehensive diagnosis, our eye specialists will plan the surgery based on your overall eye health. At Disha Eye Hospital, we use advanced cataract surgery techniques such as Phacoemulsification to ensure that patients who choose us with trust get the best and safest treatment.

We believe quality eye treatments don’t have to come at higher prices. At Disha, we are aimed at offering the best eye treatments at affordable prices. For more information about our cataract treatment, visit http://www.dishaeye.org/cataract

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Reasons you Have Puffy Eyes

eye hospital in Kolkata

Waking up every morning with puffy eyes is a real bummer. Especially when you have to have to leave for work early and are expected to look fresh and bright. Even worse is when the puffiness comes with dark circles and under eye bags. If you have been wondering about your blowfish look every morning, we have got the answers.

Let’s dig deeper.

Why your eyes are puffy just after you wake up?

It’s because while you are asleep, you do not blink. When the eyelids are idle for long hours, it develops swelling. As soon as you wake up and start blinking, the puffiness vanishes in an hour or so.

This is also determined by your sleeping position. If you lie flat on your back, it can result in fluid build-up under your eye. What you can do is, put an extra pillow under your head to tilt it up a bit. In this way, the gravitational forces pull the fluid away from the area around your eyes. Even the duration of your sleep is also a factor behind puffy eyes.

If you had a sleepless night or if you haven’t slept well, then it reflects in your eyes. It not only becomes puffy and swollen but you’ll also get dark circles. Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for reducing inflammation in your body, https://www.pharmacybc.com/ambien-zolpidem/. When you do not get enough rest, the blood vessels under your eyes are dilated. They come closer to the skin surface making the area swell and appear blue or blackish.

Puffy Eyes may indicate medical conditions

If your eyes are puffy for no apparent reason and occur unexpectedly, it might indicate an underlying medical problem. People with thyroid eye disease develop swelling of the tissues and muscles around the eyes. Bulging eyes may also result from Graves ’ disease, a type of thyroid disorder.

Your eyes may appear swollen and puffy if you have hay fever. This is an allergic disorder and is caused by allergens such as pollen grains. Any other type of allergies, chemical and food reactions can also cause swollen eyelids. When you get an allergic reaction, there are certain cells in your body that release a chemical called histamine. This chemical affects various tissues in your body including leakage from the blood vessels. The surrounding tissues trap this fluid and cause oedema.

Conjunctivitis or Pinkeye also gives you puffy and swollen eyes along with dark circles. The infection causes inflammation of the adjoining area, making your eyes swell. Even if you have dry eyes your eyes may appear puffy and swollen.

Often, systematic diseases such as kidney failure result in swelling throughout the body, including the area around your eyes.

http://www.allaboutvision.com/cosmetic/puffy-eyes.htm

Consult an eye doctor and get your eyes examined in case you experience unusual puffiness and swelling in and around your eyes. However, there are certain things that you may try to reduce puffiness.

How to reduce puffiness?

Here are 10 secrets of avoiding that blowfish-look:

1. Cut down Salt

Excessive salt intake makes your body retain water and appears bloated. The skin under your eyes is extremely thin and when your body starts retaining water, they appear swollen and puffy.

2. Take care of your allergies

Allergy seasons are always accompanied by a runny nose and water and swollen eyes. But, the good news is, medicines for allergies and sinus infection can help you get rid of those swollen eyes along with your runny nose.

3. Try using a Neti Pot

This might sound a bit weird to you but using a neti pot can help you get rid of swollen eyes. A neti pot looks like a small teapot. Put salt water in it and pour it into one nostril and let it run out of the other. This helps in flushing out all that additional moisture in your sinuses that you get from cold and allergic reactions.

4. Change your sleeping position

Try adding an extra pillow under your head and sleep on your back to avoid waking up with those pesky swollen eyes.

5. Clean your makeup before retiring for the day

Always remove each and every trace of eye makeup before going to sleep. It makes the eyes watery and may result in puffiness in the morning.

6. Lower alcohol consumption

A glass or two is fine but not more than that. Why? Because alcohol draws water out of your skin and weakens it. Since the area around the eyes is delicate, it tends to sink into a pouch. Try drinking water before going to bed and use a moisturiser around eyes.

7. Protect the area around the eye from UV rays

Take care of the area around your eyes. Too much exposure to the sun results in wrinkles around your eyes. Always use sunglasses and sunscreen when you go out in the sun. Add an extra layer of protection with a hat.

8. Avoid Smoking

Here’s another reason to kick the butt. Smoking is not only bad for your health but it also makes the skin on your face dry and weak. Say goodbye to the smokes to avoid wrinkled and droopy eyes.

9. Let your eyes chill

A cold compress is the best remedy for puffy eyes. You may try chilled spoons, tea bags, and cucumber slices to reduce puffiness.

10. Try an Eye Cream

Eye creams with retinol are good for skin around your eyes.

Source: https://www.webmd.com/beauty/ss/slideshow-banish-the-bags-under-your-eyes

Disha Eye Hospital

You can inherit the puffiness from your parents as well. In such cases, there’s no other way to get rid of puffiness but cosmetic options. But before opting for any solution, get your eyes checked. Consult an eye expert and find out the exact cause of your condition- whether it’s due to an eye issue or not. If you are looking for eye hospitals in Kolkata then you may consult the experts at Disha Eye Hospital.

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Kitchen Eye Safety Tips

eye hospital in Kolkata

Apart from workshops and playgrounds, the kitchen is where you stand at a greater risk of getting your eye injured. There are a number of potential threats in the kitchen such as sharp objects and irritants that pose a risk of eye injury. So, you need to work safely when in the kitchen to prevent eye injuries.

Here is an interesting read about tips for eye safety while in the kitchen.

1) Wash your hands after every task

When in the kitchen, you have to handle a number of items such as cooking oil, spices, cleaning chemicals, etc. If you touch your eyes after handling any one of these items, you will irritate your eyes. As a result, you may experience pain, tearing, redness, and even temporary vision blurriness.

Spices such as peppers contain a fiery oil known as capsaicin (which is used to make pepper spray). To avoid this, make sure that you wash your hands with soap or cleaning lotion every time you finish cutting down veggies and spices or after preparing any food.

Also, avoid rubbing the eyes further if you have already caused irritation by touching them with your hands. Instead, splash water into the eyes to flush out the irritants. Wearing gloves while working with foods and other items that pose eye irritation risk is another good way to ensure the safety of your eyes.

2) Hot oil and other cooking liquids in the eyes

You are always at the risk of eye injury while preparing food. For instance, hot cooking oil or cooking liquids such as gravy may splatter onto your eyes while cooking a meal. Such hot liquids can blister or burn the eyes, and as a result, you may experience extreme pain, vision blurriness, and redness.

In case of such scenario, wash your eyes to flush out the oil or cooking liquid. Don’t use anti-irritation eye drops as they can cause more redness and/or irritation. If the pain and irritation persists, see an eye care professional immediately.

Wearing safety glasses while cooking would be uncommon, but is definitely helpful in ensuring the safety of your eyes. One good way to avoid hot oils getting into your eyes is to cover the dishes with the pan lid.

3) Eye injury risks with sharp culinary tools

Culinary tools such as knives, forks, sporks, scissors, corkscrew, and can openers pose the risk of eye injuries. So, you should be extra careful while working with these culinary tools. Your children are at more risk of eye injuries from these culinary tools as they can be playful in the kitchen.

Eye injuries caused by such culinary tools can involve serious cuts, bruises, eye inflammation, vision blurriness, irritation, and redness. To take safety precautions, consider covering such culinary tools, or make sure that you buy the ones that come with safety covers. You can even store these culinary items in a specific area in the kitchen and mark them as hazardous. This way, you can prevent your kids from playing with these tools.

4) Don’t use any food as medicines

According to age-old myths, there are some foods which you can use as medicines to treat your eyes from several problems. From a scientific point of view, this is not true and instead, is risky for the eyes.

Such myths include curing pinkeye with tea and changing the eye colour with honey. These practices are harmful to the eyes as introducing any foreign substance into the eyes can create a number of problems such as irritation, redness, blurry vision, infection, and even allergy.

If you use food products for cosmetic purpose on the skin around your eyes, make sure that you don’t get them in your eyes.

5) Falls and eye injuries

When in the kitchen you’re at risk of falls and you may end up with eye injuries. Items in the kitchen such as open cabinets, liquid spills on the floor, and loose rugs pose tripping hazard.

Young children and the elderly are at a greater risk of eye injuries from falls. There are instances when you rush in the kitchen while cooking for the guests in the home. In such case, you may trip and fall and cause injury to your eyes. To avoid this, make sure that you make your kitchen a safe environment before you start working not just for yourself, but also for the elderly and children in your home.

Make sure that you keep the kitchen floor clutter-free, wipe off oil spills immediately, and don’t keep rugs in the kitchen or even if you do, make sure that it’s not loose or slippery.

6) Take precautions while cutting onions

It’s a common scenario in the kitchen to cause irritation to the eyes while cutting onions. Fortunately, there are several ways how you can avoid this. First off, make sure that you chill or freeze the onions prior to cutting them. The compounds that irritate the eyes release into the air at a warm temperature. The release of these tear-inducing chemicals can be lowered by keeping the onions at a lower temperature.

Another way to avoid irritation in your eyes cost by onions is to store them in water for at least 3 to 4 hours prior to cutting them. The tear-inducing compounds will get mixed with water and thus will not release when you cut them. You can also be extra careful by putting on safety glasses while cutting onions.

7) Risk of eye injuries from sleep deprivation and alcohol abuse

There are people who enjoy drinking while preparing food in the kitchen. If you are one of those, then you are at a greater risk of getting your eyes injured by being reckless while working with sharp utensils and culinary tools. When you drink and cook, you can also put others at risk.

Similarly, you can put yourself at a greater risk of eye injuries when you’re spending time in the kitchen while being sleep deprived. Your response time to accidents such as hitting your head in an open cabinet or slipping on the floor can get delayed when you are sleep deprived.

8) Steak and black eyes

There is a myth that you should put a raw steak take on a black eye to cure it. This is totally not safe for your eyes as raw meat contains organisms which can cause severe infection. In case you have a black eye, use ice packs to relieve the pain. Or if it’s severe, consult an eye care professional.

9) Risk of eye injuries with cleaning products

Cleaning products such as chemical cleaners, bleaches, and varnishes can cause serious injuries such as inflammation, irritation, redness, blurry vision, and even blindness in some cases. Such cleaning products contain harmful chemicals and pose a great risk of serious eye injuries.

In case cleaning products get into your eyes and cause irritation, rinse your eyes with water thoroughly. Apart from you, your children are also at a high risk of getting their eyes injured from cleaning products. To avoid this, make sure that you are extra careful while working with it. Also, keep the cleaning products out of reach of children.

10) Label all the items in your kitchen

One of the best ways to avoid eye and other injuries with the elderly and children in your kitchen is to label items as safe and hazardous. For instance, label cleaning products, spices, and sharp culinary tools as risky (probably with a warning sign). This way, the elderly and children can stay safe from eye and other injuries.

11) Use durable and leak-proof food containers

There may be a scenario where you might drop spices or other food items in your face and eyes while reaching out to a container on the top shelf. To avoid such cases, make sure that you always store spices and other food items in containers that are durable, leak-proof, and have lids that are sealable.

12) Risk of eye injuries from steam

Steam can cause severe eye injuries such as irritation, redness, blurry vision, and inflammation. You stand at a higher risk of getting your eyes injured from steam while preparing dishes such as rice and dal.
Make sure that you keep a distance while letting out the steam. You can even wear safety glasses while doing so. Avoid staying near to the cooking pot while letting the steam out.

13) Risk of eye injuries from insect repellent

Most people keep repellents such as sprays to ward off mouse and insects from the kitchen premises. Although this is good hygiene practice, insect and mouse repellents pose risks of eye injuries.

Such repellents contain harmful chemicals which, if comes in contact with the eyes, can cause serious injuries such as irritation, blurry vision, inflammation, redness, and even infection. Make sure that you wear protection such as gloves, masks, and safety eyeglasses while using the repellents. Also, wash your hands thoroughly after using repellents as you don’t want to touch your eyes with the contaminated hands.

Get your eye health checked

Are you concerned regarding your eye health? If yes, then get your eyes checked thoroughly with our eye care experts at Disha Eye Hospital.

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17 Interesting Facts on Eye Chart

Low visual acuity is one of the most common eye problems people face worldwide. An eye chart is the most common diagnostic tool used to test the visual acuity. In fact, there’s no other better way to test visual acuity and diagnose vision errors than through eye chart
Interested in knowing more about eye chart? Here’s a 5-minute read on some of the amazing facts about eye chart. Continue reading “17 Interesting Facts on Eye Chart”

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Facts on Diabetic Eye Diseases

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Do you have diabetes? If yes, then take care of your eyes. It’s because vision problems are one of the most significant complications caused by diabetes and is a common cause of blindness.

Poorly managed diabetes can affect the lens, macula, retina, and optic nerve in your eyes and may cause permanent blindness. This is why it’s important to understand how this condition may affect your eyes.
The most common and serious eye condition caused by diabetes is diabetic retinopathy. However, diabetes causes a number of other eye conditions as well.

How diabetes affects your vision?

Diabetes may affect your vision (in severe cases) and may not, but in any case, it will affect your eyes and the way it functions. This is especially when your blood sugar levels are uncontrollably high. Here’s how it affect your eyes:

  1. Any changes in your blood sugar levels have an impact on your lens. This may blur your vision and as such, you may face difficulty in your day-to-day activities, depending on the blood sugar levels. It’s not necessary that people with diabetes will develop an eye condition. It all depends on your sugar level.
  2. Diabetes also makes your eye lens cloudy. This condition is called cataract. This happens when your eye lens swells due to high levels of blood glucose in the fluid around your eye lens. As a result, the area around the lens has more water than usual and it cannot focus the light properly on the retina. People with diabetes stand at a higher risk of developing cataract at an earlier age than non-diabetic people.
  3. Diabetic people may also develop glaucoma, an eye condition that damages the optic nerve. Elevated blood sugar levels may raise the ocular pressure (pressure inside your eyes) and result in glaucoma.
  4. Diabetes can also affect the flow of blood in your eyes. It may cause blockage in the vessels obstructing the flow of blood to your retina. This blockage can also cause leakage or cause unnatural growth in the vessels. All these conditions cause different types of retinopathy. This condition can turn worse, depending on the severity of the changes in the eye blood vessels.

Eye condition caused by diabetes

The World Health Organisation identifies diabetes as a major cause of blindness all over the globe. It is estimated that by 2030, the number of people suffering from diabetic retinopathy (DR) will rise to 191.0 million and the number of people suffering from vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy including Proliferative and Non-proliferative DR, and Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) may rise to 56.3 million.

Source: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ceo.12696/pdf

Here’s a brief overview of eye conditions caused by diabetes:

5. Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy is of several types, depending on the level at which the blood vessels in your eyes are affected. This includes:

  • Background Diabetic Retinopathy

This type of retinopathy does not usually affect your eyesight. Your eyes develop this condition when there is a blockage in your capillaries in the retina. This causes the capillaries to swell which is known as microaneurisms.

A microaneurism may also leak blood or a fluid known as exudate. These changes in the eyes don’t affect the vision immediately but the eye doctor needs to monitor it regularly so that the condition doesn’t get worse.

  • Proliferative diabetic retinopathy

The blood vessels in the retina help in delivering oxygen to your retina for its proper functioning. If background retinopathy gets worse, these blood vessels may get completely damaged. As a result, a large section of your retina is affected and the blood supply to the retina is reduced.

This condition is known as ischaemia where particular areas in your retina are deprived of the oxygen they require. Your body then tries to fix this issue by growing new blood vessels on the surface of the retina or the vitreous gel. However, these blood vessels are extremely weak and as such, they bleed causing haemorrhages.

Such haemorrhages can completely block your vision as your retinopathy enters a proliferative stage. In many cases, with time, the blood might get reabsorbed into your body and there is a chance for your vision to improve. But chances are high that these haemorrhages will keep resurfacing and the blood may not be absorbed completely.

This may lead to permanent vision loss. If the haemorrhages are large, it can also scar the tissue. As the retina shrinks, the scar tissues may distort the retina or pull it on. As a result, the retina may get detached and cause serious vision loss.

  • Diabetic maculopathy and diabetic macular edema

When the retinopathy affects your macula, it causes Diabetic Maculopathy. This condition affects your central vision which is important for seeing colours and other fine detail.

As a result,  it becomes difficult for you to carry on precision tasks such as writing, reading and seeing other detail. If the fluid leakage is near the macula, the accumulation of fluid can result in macular swelling. This condition is known as diabetic macular edema. This makes your eyesight blurred and distorted. Even the colours may appear washed out.

6. Cataract

It’s through the lens that your eyes focus on an image and see. This lens is usually clear and free of any debris. Now, when you have a cataract, the lens becomes cloudy. Anyone can develop this condition but diabetic people tend to get them earlier compared to non-diabetic.

Also, cataract in a diabetic eye worsens faster. If your eye lens is cloudy, it cannot focus on images as it should. Common symptoms of cataract include blurry vision and light sensitivity. Cataract can be removed by surgery. The doctor will remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial lens.

If you are diabetic the odds of developing the eye condition depends completely on your blood glucose levels.  The lens of your eyes derives nutrients from the aqueous humour. This is the front part of your eye which is filled with fluid. Aqueous humour supplies oxygen and glucose to your eyes. Glucose is essential for proper functioning of the cells.

However, if the glucose levels are uncontrolled, the sugar content in your aqueous humour also increases causing it to swell and affects the clarity of your vision. The lens also has an enzyme that helps in converting glucose into sorbitol. When sorbitol accumulates in the lens, it affects the lens cells and other naturally-occurring proteins. As a result, the lens becomes more opaque. This condition eventually results in cataract formation.

7. Glaucoma

The relationship between diabetes and open-angle glaucoma is subject to research. Diabetic people are more likely to develop glaucoma compared to non-diabetics. Diabetes is also associated with a rare type of glaucoma known as neovascular glaucoma.

In some cases of diabetic retinopathy, the blood vessels in the retina are destroyed and as a result, the retina develops abnormal blood vessels. Neovascular glaucoma develops when new blood vessels grow on your iris. This obstructs the flow of fluid in your eyes, raising the eye pressure. This condition is difficult to treat; however, laser surgery can help in reducing the proliferation of abnormal blood vessels on the iris and your retina.

The doctor may prescribe medication for treating open-angle glaucoma. This is the most common form of glaucoma. Medicines can be used to lower eye pressure, reduce the amount of fluid in your eyes, and speed up the drainage process. Open-angle glaucoma usually doesn’t cause any symptom unless it has progressed to an advanced stage. A comprehensive eye examination is the only way to determine whether you have open-angle glaucoma or not.

You may notice these symptoms:

•    Headaches
•    Halos around lights
•    Blurred vision
•    Eye aches or pain
•    Vision loss
•    Watery eyes

How to prevent diabetic eye condition?

If your blood sugar levels are under control, you won’t have any problems in your vision. Even if you have, they won’t be severe. And that is why visiting an eye specialist from time to time is essential. This is the only way to find out whether your eyes are affected or not. The doctor may do the following tests and screening:

8. Diabetic Eye Screening

With early intervention, most of the diabetes-related eye conditions can be treated. And a thorough eye screening is the best way to detect any abnormality caused by diabetes. A comprehensive screening is essential during early stages of diabetic eye conditions as they don’t have any primary symptoms (except cataract). By the time the symptoms become noticeable, the condition becomes worse and difficult to treat.

During diabetic eye screening, the doctor will put an eye drop for enlarging the pupils. It takes 15-20 minutes and during that time, your vision is temporarily blurred. After that, the doctor takes photographs of your retina. The camera won’t touch your eyes and there will be several flashes each time a photograph is taken.

The light is pretty bright and the eye drops may make your eyes a bit stingy. Depending on the type of eye drops used, the haziness of your vision may last from two to six hours. After the screening procedure, everything around you may feel a bit bright. Do not worry, your vision will get normal soon after some time.

9. Photocoagulation (Scatter and Focal) and Vitrectomy

Scatter and Focal photocoagulation and vitrectomy help in preventing blindness in most of the cases. The sooner your condition is diagnosed, higher the chances that the treatment will be successful. In photocoagulation, the eye doctor will use a laser beam for making small burns on your retina. These burns seal the blood vessels, preventing further growth and leakage.

In scatter photocoagulation, which is also known as pan-retinal photocoagulation, the eye specialist will make hundreds of such burns in dotted patterns. This procedure reduces your chances and risk of blindness caused by vitreous haemorrhage or retinal detachment. However, this procedure will only work if the detachment hasn’t progressed much and before bleeding has occurred. Scatter Photocoagulation is also used for treating certain kinds of glaucoma.

Focal photocoagulation is where the eye care specialist aims the laser exactly on the leaking blood vessels in the macula.  This procedure won’t cure blurry vision caused by macular oedema but it can prevent the condition from getting worse.

In case the retina has already detached or excessive amount of blood has leaked into the eye, this procedure is of no help.  The next option that you have is vitrectomy. This is a surgery for removing scar tissue and cloudy fluid from your eyes. In this case too, the earlier you opt for the operation, the more likely it is to be successful.

For treating macular edema, the doctor either goes for Focal Laser Therapy or using medications. Focal laser therapy slows the leakage of fluid whereas medications can be injected into the eye to slow the growth of new blood vessels and for reducing the leakage of fluid into the macula.

Who are at the risk of developing diabetic eye disease?

Your chances of retinopathy are high if you have diabetes for a longer period. This means, almost everyone with type 1 diabetes may eventually suffer from non-proliferative retinopathy.

And most of the people with type 2 diabetes are also at the risk of developing it. If you are diabetic and you have good control over your blood sugar levels and if they are close to normal then you are less likely to develop retinopathy.

Most people with non-proliferative retinopathy usually do not show any symptoms. And that’s the reason why you should have your eyes examined regularly by an eye care expert.

Get your eye health diagnosed at a leading eye hospital in Kolkata

Get in touch with experts for thorough eye check-up or for glaucoma treatment in Kolkata. Visit http://www.dishaeye.org appointment to book an appointment.