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What Questions should Diabetics Ask their Eye Specialists in Kolkata?

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Many individuals lack awareness regarding the correlation between diabetes and eye conditions, despite the fact that diabetes can actually be a significant factor in causing such problems. In fact, it stands as one of the primary contributors to vision loss and various other eye disorders. Individuals with diabetes must make it a point to regularly consult with an ophthalmologist and seek clarification by asking relevant inquiries. If you are suffering from diabetes, here are a few questions that you might consider asking your eye specialist in Kolkata:

Question 1: What is the recommended frequency for scheduling eye examinations?

Upon receiving a diabetes diagnosis, it is important to monitor your eye health in addition to your overall well-being. For individuals with diabetes, eye specialists usually recommend to undergo comprehensive eye exams at least once per year as they are vulnerable to conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and other associated eye issues.

Question 2: Which examinations are typically conducted during an eye exam?

During an eye examination, the eye doctor may conduct a dilated eye exam to thoroughly examine your retina and blood vessels at the rear of your eyes. This comprehensive assessment aids in the early detection and appropriate management of conditions like diabetic retinopathy. Also, the eye doctor is likely to evaluate your visual acuity (VA) and intraocular pressure to identify any potential indicators of cataracts or glaucoma.

Question 3 : How will diabetes affect my vision in the long-term?

Diabetes can have significant long-term effects on vision. High blood sugar levels and the duration of diabetes can lead to various eye complications. One common condition is diabetic retinopathy, which occurs when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged. This can result in vision impairment or even blindness if left untreated.

Diabetes can also increase the risk of developing other eye conditions such as macular edema (swelling in the central part of the retina), cataracts (clouding of the eye’s lens), and glaucoma (increased pressure within the eye). These conditions can further impact vision and may require medical intervention or surgical procedures to manage.

Question 4: Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to protect my vision?

The eye specialist may recommend considering lifestyle changes if they deem it necessary. Apart from emphasising the importance of a healthy diet and regular exercise, they might also suggest monitoring blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. These factors can have a significant impact on overall health, including eye health. By maintaining healthy levels and managing these aspects of your health, you can potentially reduce the risk of developing or worsening eye conditions associated with diabetes. 

Question 5: Are there any treatments available to slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy? 

Depending on the stage of your disease and its severity, your eye specialist may suggest a few treatments that can control further worsening of your condition. One commonly used treatment for diabetic retinopathy is laser therapy, also known as photocoagulation. This procedure involves using a laser to target and seal off leaking blood vessels in the retina. Laser therapy can help reduce swelling and prevent the progression of retinopathy, thereby preserving vision.

Are you looking for the best eye specialist in Kolkata? 

Visit Disha Eye Hospitals , We believe that every individual deserves the gift of exceptional vision. That’s why we have gathered a team of the finest eye specialists in the industry, dedicated to delivering unparalleled care and transforming lives. With years of experience and extensive training, our team of ophthalmologists and optometrists are at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies and advanced treatment methods.

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How to Protect your Kid’s Eyes? Useful Insights by Some of the Best Eye Specialists in Kolkata

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As a parent, it is your job to keep your child safe and healthy. But how do you make sure that their eyes are getting the care they need? It is essential to prioritise eye health from an early age. Proper eye care for children can go a long way in preventing eye problems and ensuring that their vision is protected in the future. Our best eye specialists in Kolkata have curated some of the best eye care tips for kids:

1. Regular eye exams:

Eye exams are important for every individual regardless of age. It can detect any potential eye problems at an early stage. Your child should get their first eye exam when they are six months old. The following eye exam should be carried out when they are three years old. Take your kids to the eye specialist before they start school. If they squint while trying to view any kind of writing or details, there are chances that they have developed a vision problem. The eye specialist will prescribe a few tests. The treatment plan will then depend upon the results of these tests. Regular eye exams will help in detecting the problem early and initiate the treatment process. This will prevent the issue from progressing into something critical or impairing your kid’s eyes at a young age. Eye exams will also help monitor the effectiveness of the treatment plan and if there is any requirement for further upgrade or additions in the process.

2. Limited screen time:

It is important to limit your child’s use of digital devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and computers to prevent eye strain and other problems. Excessive screen time can lead to eye inflammation, dry eye syndrome, and redness. Encourage your child to take regular breaks while watching TV or playing video games. For children between the ages of 2 and 5, limit screen time to two hours per day. Spending too much time on digital devices can also lead to behavioural problems such as violence, reduced attention span, and disobedience. By decreasing screen time, your child can improve their focus and avoid issues such as fatigue, headaches, and eye pain.

3. Outdoor activities: 

Spending time outdoors can have a positive impact on children’s eye health, reducing the risk of myopia and other eye problems. Encouraging children to engage in outdoor activities, play with friends, and participate in sports can have numerous benefits. Here are a few reasons why spending time outdoors is good for children’s eyesight:

  • Exposure to natural light: Spending time outdoors exposes children to natural light, which can enhance the development of their visual system and help them adapt better to different lighting environments. This can reduce the risk of developing myopia.
  • Reduces eye strain: Too much screen time can cause eye strain, but spending time outdoors allows the eyes to adjust to natural light, reducing the risk of developing complex eye problems.
  • Improves eye movements: Being outside gives children the opportunity to focus on different things happening around them, which can improve their eye movement and hand-eye coordination. Activities such as playing sports or running in the park can also enhance visual health.

    4. Proper lighting: 

Proper lighting is important because it helps your child view things clearly which leads to focus and enhanced performance. Ensure that your child’s work and play areas are illuminated adequately. Do not make the area too bright as that can cause strain on the eyes. Here are some benefits of adequate lighting: 

  • Reduced strain on their eyes
  • Improved visual performance such as reading, writing, accuracy, and comprehension 
  • Reduced errors
  • Reduced possibilities of nearsightedness
  • Enhanced safety

    5. Balanced diet: Balanced diet is important for  good visual health. Food rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc are instrumental in maintaining good eye health. Ensure that your child consumes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods. The benefits of a few nutrients are as follows: 

    VITAMIN A: It keeps the cornea healthy. Vitamin A contains rhodopsin, which is a protein that helps to view in low lighting conditions. Vitamin A is found in orange- coloured fruits and vegetables such as carrots, mangoes, apricot, and sweet potatoes.

    VITAMIN C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that produces collagen. Collagen is responsible for maintaining the connective tissue in the eyes.Vitamin C protects eyes from damage and can help prevent eye disorders. It can be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, guava, lemon, and tomato, as well as in vegetables such as broccoli, sprouts, and capsicum.

    VITAMIN E: Vitamin E helps lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataract. Vitamin E is found in almonds, pistachios, and walnuts. Including vitamin E rich food can preserve your child’s eyesight.

    ZINC: Zinc helps in the formation of visual pigments in the retina. A deficiency in this nutrient can cause night blindness. Zinc is found in foods such as chickpeas, beans, and nuts.

    OMEGA 3: Omega3 is beneficial in vision development of infants. DHA and other omega 3 fatty acids, found in breast milk, support eye development in infants. Omega3 is also found in other food sources such as fish, nuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds. 

Looking for the best eye care for your child?

Visit Disha Eye Hospitals. Our team of highly trained paediatric ophthalmologists and optometrists are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for your child’s eyes. We offer a wide range of services including eye exams ( such as motor tests and sensory tests) and treatment of eye conditions and disorders, and specialised care for children with complex eye issues.

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What are some common causes of light sensitivity?


Photophobia or light sensitivity is a medical condition in which bright light hurts the eyes. It’s an eye condition associated with various medical conditions such as migraine, meningitis and dry eyes. Its symptoms might range from minor irritation to extreme pain. In mild cases, people might squint in bright light or experience a minor headache. Although anyone can develop light sensitivity, people with lighter eye colour are at higher risk of photophobia. Dark eyes have more pigment to protect the eyes against light sensitivity. Some of our best eye specialist in Kolkata share common causes of light sensitivity: 

  1. Dry eyes:  One of the most common causes of photophobia is dry eyes.  Dry eyes could be due to ageing or due to changes in hormones. Diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome and Parkinson’s disease can also lead to dry eyes. It can be a side effect of medication such as antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs, and more. 

Treatment of dry eyes can include medications that may lead to light sensitivity. Some of the symptoms of dry eye are:

  •  Light sensitivity 
  • Red-itchy eyes
  • Eye pain
  • Blurred vision
  • Constant feeling of something in the eyes 

    Migraine: Migraine is a neurological condition that causes severe headaches. In migraine, light could trigger the pain and worsen the headache. Some of the other triggering causes include hormonal changes, stress, and anxiety. Sometimes alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and processed food can also act as a trigger for light for migraine and associated light sensitivity. Some of the symptoms of migraine include:

  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Numbness in the body 

    Eye Strain: Eye Strain occurs when the eyes get tired from intense use. It can be due to over-focusing the eyes on one particular thing which leads to exhaustion of the eyes. For instance, driving and using a computer for a long time can lead to eye strain. Digital eye strain is quite common among people. Generally, the symptoms of eye strain go away with little rest to the eyes. For this, simply shut the eyes in between the task or use gel eye masks to get a little relief. Taking frequent breaks can also help. You can reduce computer glare by using a matte screen filter.

Here are a few symptoms of eye strains:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry vision
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Sore eyes 

    Blepharitis: Blepharitis or eyelid inflammation occurs when the oil glands in eyelids are clogged. This can happen due to use of eye makeup. Psoriasis, allergies, bacteria and tiny insects can also cause blepharitis. Eyelid inflammation should ideally be treated by an eye specialist.  Makeup should not be applied on the affected eye as it may worsen the situation. Here are a few symptoms of blepharitis:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Swollen- itchy eyelids
  • Dandruff-like flakes on the eyelids
  • Abnormal growth of eyelashes or falls out easily

Conjunctivitis (pink eyes): Conjunctivitis can be due to viral and bacterial infection or could be due to some allergy leading to reddish-pink inflammatory eyes. It is highly contagious. For the treatment of conjunctivitis, the eye specialist can prescribe some eye drops and antibiotics. Here are a few symptoms of conjunctivitis:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Constant feeling of something in the eyes
  • Watery discharge form the eyes
  • Red inflammatory eyes

Keratitis (cornea infection): It is the inflammation of the cornea. It can be due to viral and bacterial infection, due to an eye injury, or wearing contact lenses for too long. The eye specialist may recommend some antibiotics and ask to not wear contact lenses for some time. Symptoms of keratitis include:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Eye pain with redness
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty in opening your eyes 

    Corneal abrasion: Corneal Abrasion can be quite painful. They can range from a minor superficial scratch to major corneal abrasion and need immediate medical attention. It can develop due to any foreign particle such as dirt or sand particles in the eye. Symptoms of corneal abrasion are:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry vision
  • Redness
  • Eye discharge
  • Constant feeling of something in the eyes

Scleritis: It is a deep eye pain that extends to the face. Mainly people with autoimmune disorders are more likely to have scleritis. For this, an eye specialist should be immediately consulted. Here are a few symptoms of scleritis:

  • Sensitivity to lights
  • Severe pain in both the eyes
  • Eye inflammation
  • Tearing 

    Encephalitis or meningitis: It is the inflammation of the brain tissues. It can be due to viruses, bacteria, or fungi. In some cases, both encephalitis and meningitis can occur at the same time. In mild cases, a headache and light sensitivity can be the symptoms. But in severe cases, it can be fatal. It is advisable to consult the doctor immediately. Here are a few symptoms:

  • Sensitivity to light and sound
  • Headache
  • Confusion 
  • Neck stiffness
  • Seizure

Our best eye specialists in Kolkata suggest the following tips to prevent photophobia: 

  • Those suffering from migraine should avoid triggers such as loud noises,  harsh light and certain foods. This can help reduce the chances of migraine attacks. 
  • Avoid contact with people having meningitis, wash hands regularly, and get immunisation for bacterial meningitis. 
  • Get a vaccination for encephalitis. 

Looking for the best eye specialist in Kolkata? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, provide comprehensive ophthalmology care. Our skilled and dedicated eye specialists offer a wide range of eye care services to protect your vision. From regular eye checkups to cataract treatment, from LASIK to glaucoma treatment, we are a one-stop destination for all eye-related issues. Find the nearest branch to book an appointment.   

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What Questions Should Diabetics Ask Their Eye Specialists?

best eye specialist in barrackpore

Diabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are too high. The medical condition affects multiple organs of your body and your eyes are no exception. The high blood glucose levels make the lens of the eyes swell, thus affecting the vision. If you or any of your family members are diabetic, here are some questions you should ask your eye specialists:

Question 1: Which eye problem is most associated with diabetes?

Anyone with type 1, type 2, or even gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant) is at the risk of developing:

● Diabetic retinopathy
● Cataracts
● Macular edema
● Glaucoma

These eye problems are also called diabetic eye disease, an umbrella term used for a group of diabetes-related diseases that affect your vision.

Question 2: How long does it take for diabetes to damage eyes?

Well, how quickly or slowly diabetes affects the eyes varies from one person to another. It usually takes between 5 to 10 years to develop a diabetic eye disease. The more uncontrolled the diabetes is, the faster the damage will be.

Question 3: What are the warning signs of diabetic retinopathy?

The warning signs of diabetic retinopathy include:

● Spots or dark strings floating in your vision
● Fluctuating vision
● Blurred vision
● Dark or empty areas in your vision

Diabetes in general can cause blurry vision.

Question 4: How often should I get an eye exam?

Even if you see a diabetologist regularly, it is important to get an eye exam at least once a year. If diabetes is not under control, you may have to see your eye specialist more frequently. If you are 60 or above, it is better to get your eyes examined twice every year.

Question 5: Can I get laser eye surgery?

Laser eye surgery is considered safe if you are diabetic as long as the blood sugar levels are under control and the condition has not yet affected the eyes. Your eye ophthalmologist is the best person to tell you whether you can undergo laser eye surgery or not.

Question 6: Can diabetics have eye surgery?

Yes, you can undergo eye surgery, if required. However, it depends on the eye condition that you are suffering from and any other medical condition that you may have. In certain cases, you may have to wait until your sugar levels are under control.

Question 7: Before eye surgery, is it necessary to keep my sugar levels under control?

Yes, it is important to keep your sugar levels under control. High sugar levels increase the risk of:

● Infection
● Slow healing
● Heart problems

Your eye specialist and diabetologist can suggest an appropriate course of treatment to control diabetes.

Question 8: Before eye surgery, is there any need to fast?

Whether you have diabetes or not, before any eye surgery, you will need to fast for about 12 hours.
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Question 9: Before eye surgery, do I need to stop taking medicines for diabetes?

If you take medicines for diabetes, talk to an eye specialist about stopping it. Generally, it should be stopped 48 hours before and 48 hours after surgery to reduce complications. Do tell your eye specialist about all the medications, including supplements, that you are taking. The eye specialist will tell you which one to continue and which one to stop.

Question 10: How do I prepare for eye surgery if I have diabetes?
One of the best ways to prepare for eye surgery is to simply follow your eye specialist’s instructions. Remember, the outcomes of the eye surgery will be better if your sugar levels are under control.

Looking for an eye specialist in Barrackpore?

As a leading eye hospital in West Bengal, we have branches all over the state including Barrackpore. We have some of the best eye specialists in Barrackpore on board. Our doctors have extensive clinical and surgical expertise. If you are experiencing any eye-related problems, visit the nearest branch or book an online consultation.

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Who is an Eye Specialist? Signs that You should Visit One

eye specialist

Eyes indicate a lot about your health including the early signs of many diseases such as diabetes, blood pressure, high cholesterol, and jaundice. By visiting your eye specialist often, you can discover those underlying causes early and take necessary precautions to prevent them. Here we share with useful insights on who is an eye specialist and when should you visit one: 

Who is an eye specialist?

An eye specialist is also known as an ophthalmologist. They perform eye tests, diagnose and treat disease, prescribe medications, and perform eye surgery.  They also prescribe glasses or contact lenses.  Here are some signs that you should visit an eye specialist:

1. Vision problems 

If you are experiencing vision problems such as blurred vision, eye floaters, double vision, halos around bright lights, or struggling to read or see objects at a distance, it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. There are many eye conditions that may lead to loss of vision if timely treatment is not sought.

2. Eye pain

If you get eye pain that persists for too long, you have to visit your eye doctor. Mostly, eye pain causes due to the reasons such as glaucoma, or injury in the cornea.

3. Infection in the eye

There are many things that lead to allergic reactions in the eyes including dust mites. Sometimes, allergic reactions lead to serious infections. In that case, visit the nearest eye doctor. Eye infection symptoms include eye secretion, itchy red eyes, and blurry vision.

4. Frequent squinting

You may squint your eyes to focus on the blurred objects, things, or images in front of you. Squinting can decrease the image size to get a clear view and reduce the extra light that your eyes receive. But, this temporary fix is not an ideal way of dealing with poor vision. So, frequent squinting is a valid reason that you must get your eyes examined by an eye doctor.

5. Diabetes diagnosis

If diabetes runs in your family, or if you are diagnosed with diabetes, it is essential to get your eyes examined regularly by your eye doctor. Those suffering from diabetes are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy.

6. Constant headaches

Several eye problems such as inflammation in the optic nerve or glaucoma can trigger headaches. Going for regular eye checkups can prevent major eye complications. Headaches could be related to eye strain. 

Looking for the best eye specialist in Kolkata? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have experienced eye doctors for the treatment of eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, corneal and retinal diseases. We also offer laser surgery for cataracts, glaucoma, and refractive errors. Book online consultation or visit the nearest branch.

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60+ Eye Health: How to Maintain Healthy Eyes

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Though eye problems can occur at any age, they are more common in later years of life. Eye diseases such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma are more common among the elderly. Medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk of age-related eye diseases. If you are above the age of 60, it is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle that promotes good eye health. Here we share with some useful insights for seniors on maintaining good eye health:

1. Include food that benefits your eye: The health of your eyes can be greatly determined by the type of food you eat. A study shows that certain types of diet can help improve your eye health.  Additionally nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc and vitamins C and E can prevent vision problems caused due to old age.

2. Quit smoking: Smoking is not only harmful to your lungs but also to your eyes. It can increase the chances of cataracts and macular degeneration.  Smoking can also affect the optic nerve, which can increase the chances of glaucoma. So if you  smoke, it is best to quit smoking.

3. Keep sugar levels and BP under control: Hypertension and diabetes are not just linked to cardiovascular diseases but they also increase the risk of eye diseases. These conditions lead to adverse changes in the blood vessels of the eyes. If you are suffering from any of these conditions, it is important to keep them under control and regularly see an eye specialist. 

4. Exercise regularly: Exercising regularly is good for the overall health as well as eye health.  Being physically active keeps blood pressure and glucose levels in check. Studies have shown that exercising regularly can improve eye health and  reduce the chances of eye diseases such as cataracts or macular degeneration.

5. Protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays:  Wearing protective sunglasses can greatly reduce the effect of UV rays on the eyes. Protecting your eyes is important because too much UV exposure might lead to the formation of cataracts or increase the chances of macular degeneration.

Note: If you wear prescription glasses, opt for  sunglasses with power lenses.

6. Visit an eye specialist at least once a year : One of the effective ways to keep your eyes healthy after the age of 60 is to visit an eye specialist at least once a year.  If you already have an eye condition, you may have to visit an eye specialist more frequently.  Regular eye check ups can help  detect eye diseases in the early stages. This can increase the chances of better treatment. 

Looking for an eye specialist in Kolkata? 

If you are looking to get an eye condition treated or just want to visit an eye specialist for a comprehensive eye check up, visit Disha Eye Hospitals.  We have over 90 highly experienced and qualified doctors in our 15 branches in West Bengal. Our eye specialists are well-versed with the latest medical techniques and have access to state-of-the-art medical equipment to give you the best possible care. 

 

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Check These Useful Insights on 20-20-20 Rule and Eye Strain

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Are you suffering from eye strain because of your job? Are you finding it difficult to concentrate because of the pain and fatigue in your eyes? If so, this post is for you. Our eye specialists in Kolkata have curated a few valuable insights on eye strain that can help you manage the condition better. So, keep reading!

What’s the 20-20-20 rule?

The 20-20-20 rule is a simple way to reduce eye strain. The rule is to take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a chance to rest and prevents them from getting too tired.

How does the 20-20-20 rule prevent eye strain?

When you look at screens for long periods of time, your eyes can become tired and strained. The 20-20-20 rule helps prevent this by giving your eyes a chance to refocus every 20 minutes. It is a simple, effective way to reduce eye strain and keep your eyes healthy. 

What are the symptoms of eye strain?

Eye strain is a condition that can occur when your eyes are overworked or fatigued. Symptoms of eye strain can include:

  • Headache
  • Sore or tired eyes
  • Blurred vision
  • Double vision
  • Dry eyes

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to rest your eyes and see an eye doctor or an eye specialist if the symptoms persist. If you live in Kolkata, you can book a virtual  appointment with an eye specialist in Kolkata at Disha Eye Hospitals or visit our hospital.  

What are other ways to prevent eye strain?

If you work at a computer all day, you know that eye strain is a real pain. Here are some tips for preventing eye strain other than the 20-20-20 rule:

  • Take breaks often to look away from the screen and focus on something else in the room.
  • Adjust your screen brightness and text size to make them comfortable for your eyes.
  • Ensure that your computer monitor is at the correct height so you’re not straining your neck to look up or down at it.
  • Invest in a good pair of computer glasses if you wear contacts or have vision problems.
  • Try to blink often to keep your eyes from getting too dry.

Following these tips should help you avoid or lessen the effects of eye strain. If you’re still having problems, see an eye specialist to ensure there isn’t a more serious issue.

About Disha Eye Hospitals

We are committed to providing comprehensive and high-quality eye care services to our patients. We offer a wide range of services, including eye examinations, contact lens fittings, and lasik surgery. We use the latest technology and equipment to provide our patients with the best possible care. Our experienced and skilled staff are dedicated to providing excellent customer service. 

We offer various services, including cataract, diagnostic and imaging services, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, pediatric ophthalmology, retina, corneal diseases treatment, emergency OPD, laser treatment, oculoplastic, lasik & refractive surgery and uvea. For more details, contact us.

Conclusion:

Eye strain is a real issue that can cause discomfort and even long-term damage. By being aware of the causes and symptoms of eye strain, you can take steps to prevent it from happening or lessen its effects. If you experience any of the symptoms we’ve mentioned, please consult with an eye specialist as soon as possible. Thanks for reading!

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Eye Health Tips for College Students

College students have a lot on their plate and they have a busy academic schedule and social life. Amidst this, eye health is often not a priority. Eyes are one of the most sensitive parts of the body that require care. When an eye problem is detected early on, the chances of treatment are often better. As one of the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata, we share a few tips for healthy eyes for college students:

Eye specialist

  • Reduce screen time: Digital eye strain is the most common problem faced by college students. With virtual classes, students are now spending more time in front of the screen. Eyestrain, headaches and  blurred vision are some of the symptoms of digital eye strain. To help alleviate digital eye strain, students must take a 20 seconds break after every 20 minutes and look at something (other than the screen) 20 feet away. This gives the eyes much needed rest.

  • Take care of contact lenses: There are no two ways that contact lenses are one of the most convenient tools to correct vision problems. However, they are medical devices that need proper handling. College students should make it a point to always wash their hands before touching contact lenses. Sleeping with contact lenses  can lead to eye redness, dry eyes and even eye infections.

  • Wear the right eyewear for outdoor activities: College students who are part of the sports team or who spend a good amount of time outdoors, should wear sunglasses. They should make sure that their sunglasses offer UV protection. Prescription sunglasses are a smart choice for those who need glasses.

  • Do not share makeup: Sharing eye makeup may seem to be harmless but it might lead to the spreading of infections.  Avoid using expired cosmetic products. If a particular product is causing redness in the eye or near the eye, it is best to not use it again.

  • Get proper sleep: Sleep plays an important role in the college student’s productivity level. Good sleep helps in maintaining their eyes health. Adults need at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Lack of sleep may lead to dry eyes.

  • Lead healthy  lifestyle: Physical exercise, healthy diet and not smoking are the three habits every college student should inculcate. According to a study, physical exercise is not just for physical fitness but also for good eye health. Healthy diet is very much needed for good eye health.  College students should  ensure that they are having a well-balanced diet that lowers the chances of obesity and type 2 diabetes, which is the leading cause of blindness in adults. It has been found that smoking increases the chances of cataract development. Students who smoke should quit smoking and those who don’t smoke should never start it.

  • Get comprehensive eye checkup done every year: While a routine visual acuity test is important, college students should get a comprehensive eye test done every year.  Performed by a qualified eye specialist or ophthalmologist, the eye test helps in detecting  eye conditions. 

Are you looking for an eye specialist in Kolkata?

If you are experiencing any eye-related problems, visit Disha Eye Hospitals or book an  online consultation with our eye specialists. We offer quality eye care at affordable rates. We are a one-stop destination for eye care. We have diagnostic and imaging service centres, emergency OPD, optical store and a paediatric clinic all under one roof. 

 

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Rubbing Your Eyes: Is It Bad?

Most people rub their eyes inadvertently. Though it may seem harmless, rubbing eyes can be dangerous and can even damage the cornea. If you find yourself constantly rubbing your eyes due to dryness, you should consult an eye doctor. 

What makes you rub your eyes?

Rubbing the eyes can be an after-effect of  eye conditions such as:

  1. Eye infections: There are many kinds of eye infections that make our eyes itchy. Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye infections that causes redness or pinkness in the eyes and makes them itchy. Usually, eye infections are caused due to bacteria and viruses. Touching eyes with dirty hands can easily transmit the virus or bacteria to the eyes. Conjunctivitis is contagious and easily spreads to one another. 
  2. Allergies: According to a study, when you have an allergy-causing virus/ bacteria in the eyes and you rub them, you will feel like rubbing the eyes more. Allergies make your eyes itchier. Itching can be accompanied by a stuffy nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. Some people can also be allergic to food, insect stings, or medications.
  3. Prolonged use of contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses too can also cause eyes to itch. 
  4. Additional causes for rubbing of eyes could include dry eyes, eye strain, and blepharitis.

What rubbing your eyes can lead to.

  • Hands are generally dirtier than any other part of the body. When the hands touch the eyes it leads to the transfer of germs. 
  • If there is already something foreign material in the eyes, rubbing at that point can make the situation worse.
  •  Many people suffer from conditions such as myopia, glaucoma, and many other conditions. Excessive rubbing may lead to worsening of the eyesight by damaging blood vessels. 
  • Excessive rubbing may lead to thinning of the cornea. This condition is known as keratoconus.

Tips to stop rubbing your eyes

The best way to stop rubbing your eyes is to treat the underlying cause that is making them itch. Your doctor will guide you through the practices that may prevent you from rubbing your eyes. He can also prescribe some medication at https://xanaxtreatanxiety.com to relieve anxiety and the itchiness. Saline and eye drop prescribed by your doctor can be used for relieving the irritation. You may also apply a warm compress to your eye but it should be done only after consulting an eye doctor.

Sometimes rubbing is due to habit and because of any medical condition causing itching. In this case, the following methods can be used to stop this:

  • Be conscious of what you are doing using your hands. Resist the urge and try to deviate your mind to not rub your eyes.
  • Wear gloves when you are finding it hard to keep your fingers from your face. Covered fingers make rubbing difficult.
  • Try to engage your hands in some other task. Squeezing a stress ball or rubbing a smooth rock might be useful.

Are you looking for an eye doctor in Kolkata?

Disha Eye Hospitals is a leading eye hospital in West Bengal. Our eye doctors of different caliber are on board. Our doctors are well-versed in the latest medical technology and our hospitals have all the modern equipment to support our doctors in providing the best patient care possible. 

 

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FAQs on Inherited and Genetic Eye Diseases

There are many factors that play an important role in determining overall eye health. Genetics is one of the most significant ones. Many eye diseases, including those that cause blindness among infants, children and adults, are inherited. In some cases, early diagnosis and effective treatment for inherited eye disorders can help prevent the conditions from worsening. Therefore, it is important to know about these conditions. We have some of the best eye specialists in Kolkata. These eye specialists will answer some of the frequently asked questions on inherited and genetic eye diseases 

Question 1: What eye problems are genetic?

There are over 350 eye diseases that are genetic. A genetic eye disorder occurs when a child inherits a disease from one or both patients. Some of the genetic eye disorders are: 

  • Congenital cataracts
  • Congenital glaucoma
  • Retinal degeneration
  • Colour blindness 
  • Corneal dystrophies
  • Keratoconus

Note: In adults, glaucoma and macular degeneration are among the leading causes of blindness. Both seem to be hereditary.

Question 2: Can common vision problems be inherited?

Yes, common refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism are also inherited. The risk of developing these conditions is higher if both the parents have the eye disorder. Strabismus and amblyopia can also be inherited. 

Question 3: Can genetic eye disorders be cured?

Early diagnosis and effective treatment of inherited eye disorders can help prevent the worsening of vision. For instance, congenital cataracts can be treated by removal as soon after the diagnosis. The surgery can be performed on an infant as young as 6 to 8 weeks. 

Question 4: What are the symptoms of inherited eye diseases? 

Symptoms vary depending on the type of eye disease. Some of the general symptoms include:

  • Abnormal appearance
  • Fluid in eyes
  • Impaired vision  

Question 5: How can genetic eye problems be diagnosed? 

The best way to protect a baby’s eyes from congenital or hereditary eye disease is through regular eye examinations. Certain eye diseases are present at the time of birth while some develop shortly thereafter. Therefore, it is important that the baby’s eyes are regularly examined by an ophthalmologist or paediatric ophthalmologist. When diagnosed early, the chances of treatment can be better and the impact of the disease can be minimised. 

Looking for the best eye specialist in Kolkata for children? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have a dedicated Paediatric Ophthalmology unit with some of the best eye specialists in Kolkata on board. We conduct various eye tests for infants, toddlers, pre-school children and verbal children. We work closely with parents and children to integrate ophthalmologic treatment into the patient’s total care plan.

Question 6: What to expect during the evaluation? 

The paediatric ophthalmologist or eye doctor will completely review the test results. The parents will be asked about their family medical history, with particular attention given to signs and symptoms of genetic disorders. The child will have to undergo a comprehensive eye checkup. For this, the pupils will be dilated. Some of the common tests for diagnosing genetic eye disorders are: 

  • Electroretinography
  • Visual evoked potential testing
  • Optical coherence tomography
  • Fundus autofluorescence
  • Visual fields

 

Note: Additional tests may be recommended depending on the symptoms.