Dr. T.P. Ray, CEO & Medical Director, Welcare Hospital When you try to explain to someone how the eye works the easiest comparison is with a superbly designed camera. This marvelous, versatile, accurate, self-repairing moving ‘camera', the eye, will give a lifetime's service provided you take good care of it. In the Gulf there are some special conditions which effect the eye . The high temperatures and ambient UV radiation of the sun almost all the year round gives rise to headaches, eyestrain and eye fatigue. This is especially if the eyes are not suitably protected when you are out doors by a pair of good quality sun glasses. High UV Radiation can have several effects on the eye. There could be an early onset of cataracts (which is the gradual clouding of the lens in the eye) causing the vision to gradually decrease. Cataracts occur in colder climatic areas usually after the age of 60-70 years but in the Gulf it has been observed to occur at a much younger age. However today Cataracts are not a major problem as very good quality surgery with intra ocular lens implants and Phacoemmulsification assures almost 99 percent results after the operation. Another problem that is seen more often in the Gulf is Pterygium. This is a fleshy growth which occurs on to the cornea (which is the central clear part of the eye) and if this is allowed to grow can have effect on the vision. Pterygiums are very common in the Gulf area because of the heat, humidity and high solar radiation. Surgical results after Pterygium surgery are not all that good as Pterygiums tend to reoccur in almost 50 percent of operated cases. Special techniques are required for Pterygium surgery which are always not available in all medical centres. Trachoma is a common eye infection which occurs in sandy desert areas. It is often a major problem in the Gulf as it can be easily transmitted from one to another through infected towels, clothing and hands. Trachoma is a chronic condition and causes irritation, itching and redness of the eyes. If untreated it can cause corneal scarring, scarring of eyelids, eyelashes can turn inwards thus aggravating the irritation felt by the eyes and in the ultimate results can be very severe even causing blindness. Trachoma patients should be treated from time to time by medication and can be controlled if the patient does not ignore the symptoms and visits the doctor . This is definitely a condition which needs prompt attention. The reliance on air conditioning in the Gulf can lead to allergies in the eye. Moreover most homes and offices are carpeted which leads to dust collection causing irritation to the eyes. Allergies occur in colder areas seasonally, during spring and summer but in the Gulf they can be seen all year round. They are easily treated with medication but ideally it would be better to prevent the condition by following a cleanliness routine and trying to keep a dust and fibre free environment.
In the Gulf there is a very high incidence of Diabetes because of the lifestyles excessive eating of good food and lack of exercise. Diabetes tends to effect the eyes profoundly. Diabetic cataract and damage to the retina is common in people who have had diabetes for just a few years. The effects on the retina in diabetes can cause sudden loss of vision if not detected early. Therefore it is essential that anyone with diabetes must have his eyes checked by an Eye Specialist at least once a year. New blood vessels and bleeds can occur in the retina in diabetes and need to be treated by lasers to prevent catastrophic bleeds which can wipe out the vision in a few seconds. If you look after your eyes they will serve you well through your life. Neglect can only cause damage and if let too long it could be permanent! |