By Dr.Veena G.D., MBBS, DOMS
What is a condition and what is a disease
Differences between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist
Latest technique in cataract surgery
Can water infect the eyes
How one should clean and wipe their eyes
Will rose water (gulab jal), elaneer kozhaumbu (extract of tender coconut) help remove eye pain and tiredness
How to protect eyes during Diwali and from Holi colours
What happens when you gaze at solar eclipse
How you can get rid of glasses
Why Does an Eyelid Twitch
What is a condition and what is a disease
Disease is a status of the eye with a group of symptoms and clinical signs with a definitive course and cause. The symptoms can be generalized or localized and treatment varies with the presentation and conditions. E.g. viral conjunctivitis
Condition is a status of the eye in dynamic state or physiological state which present as factor not affected by signs and symptoms. This is present at birth and continues through out life with minor variations. E.g. shortsightedness, farsightedness
Differences between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist
An Ophthalmologist holds a medical degree and a post graduation degree in ophthalmic surgery and medicine. Usually the basic education of 12 years is followed by the medical training, and is qualified to diagnose and treat all eye diseases; perform surgery; prescribe and fit glasses and contact lenses.
An Optometrist holds a diploma in optometry degree and is licensed to practice optometry and is qualified to determine the need for glasses and contact lenses; prescribe optical correction; and screen for some eye conditions.
Latest technique in cataract surgery
The latest trend in cataract surgery is Phaco-emulsification. It is done with minimal surgical incision length (3mm) and using ultrasonic instrument called phaco-emulsifier which comes in the form of a pen. This pen can be used within small incision (keyhole surgery) and surgeon even implants Intra Ocular Lens through this opening. It causes minimum tissue damage and post operative recovery is also very fast. No sutures are required. Blood loss is minimal as compared to the traditional old surgical method.
Can water infect the eyes
Water by itself does not infect the eye but if it has other dissolved substance (like dirt or impurities, soap, shampoo or any other day to day life chemical irritants from the bathroom cabinet) it could harm the eyes. So perfumes, after shave cologne, any other alcohol based cosmetic product should be used with caution so that it does not get into the eyes. Sterile (boiled and cooled) and clean water can be used to rinse the eyes on daily basis.
Newly cleaned swimming pool water might also irritate the eyes and make them appear red due to chlorine / bleach present in the water. Hence after swimming, while taking shower, clean the eyes thoroughly so as to wash away the bleach water completely. Usage of swimming goggles would be found beneficial.
How one should clean and wipe their eyes
Take a bowl of boiled warm water. Dip a ball of cotton. Use it to gently wipe the eyes from outside towards the nose. Repeat it three to four times on each eye and twice a day. Make sure eyes are closed while cleaning.
Will rose water (gulab jal), elaneer kozhaumbu (extract of tender coconut) help remove eye pain and tiredness
People generally have a belief that the above mentioned remedies bring soothing effect to eyes from irritation, fatigue and discomfort, as long as it is used in limitation and if the eyes do not have any injury or wound. Also make sure the content does not come with any metallic salt preservatives.
How to protect eyes during Diwali and from Holi colours
One should wear protective goggles to make sure the fumes from crackers, sulphur particles from the exploded crackers and bright light doesn’t enter the eye directly. Same thing while celebrating holi, the chemicals from the colours will irritate the cornea of the eye and probably allergic reaction can set in. So as a precaution on both occasions good pair of goggles or eye protecting gear should be worn. If anytime there is suspicion of particle into the eye, immediately rinse with generous amount of lukewarm water and get medical attention.
What happens when you gaze at solar eclipse
Many people gaze at this celestial event with avid interest. But always remember one needs to be cautious while looking at solar eclipse. Never watch it directly or always use blackened / tinted looking glass. Sun rays are composed of ultraviolet rays, some of which are harmful during the eclipse to an extent the most important part of the retina – macula will get burnt resulting in loss of visual acuity. Rarely, it affects both the eyes with severe intensity.
In olden days village folks used to fill up a wide mouthed vessel with water and watch the events in the reflection. Thereby most of the radiation and the intensity will not harm the eyes.
Safest is to watch the event over web / television. Eyes are always safe.
How you can get rid of glasses
Generally the belief is that special eye exercise or diet or yoga or alternative treatment (viz drops etc.) can reduce the refractive error of the eye. The refractive power of the eye is a condition present at birth and through out the life probably with some variations with day to day life. Around fourth decade of life the refractive status again takes a change towards presbyopia for which reading glasses are advised. Hence to avoid wearing spectacles, you can wear contact lens of corresponding power. Another option is refractive surgery – LASIK (Laser Assisted in situ Keratomileusis)
Why Does an Eyelid Twitch
Palpabral Myokymia, medical term for eyelid twitching. Mild twitching / fasciculation of the eyelid is a common phenomenon. Although these involuntary contractions of muscles are disturbing, they are always present only for a short duration. Usually occurs when one is tired or fatigued. The twitching is not visible. Causative factors are lack of sleep, too much caffeine intake or increased work stress. Often, gently massaging your eye will relieve the symptoms. Usually, catching up on your 6-8 hours of sound sleep and taking regular multivitamins could help.