The Crucial Role of Ophthalmology in Eye Care

Ophthalmology in Eye Care

Sight is one of the most precious gifts we have. Not many people appreciate the kaleidoscope of colours everywhere around us that give meaning to existence. Being able to see is being able to feel. But what happens if our vision gets blurry, and we’re no longer able to see what we cherish in life? Thankfully, medical science has evolved to a point where cutting edge procedures significantly improve eyesight, and in some cases, reverse blindness. In this article, we will be looking at the key role of Ophthalmology in treating eye care conditions.

Dubai - A Hub of Innovation in Ophthalmology

Dubai doctors, including Ophthalmologists to be precise, are some of the best in the business. They come from all over the globe to practice their craft here for a reason. The city is a land of opportunity for anyone who has the skills and a good head over the shoulders. Having said that, let’s look at some of the most common types of eye diseases, along with their treatment and management.

Cataract

It is the most common type of eye disorder, with more than 100 million people around the world afflicted by it. Its onset is typically sudden, with no noticeable early symptoms. The condition could affect a person of any age. 

Those affected by Cataract see the world through a veil of clouds and haze. Throughout the developing and developed world, Cataract is the most common eye disorder that leads to permanent blindness in old age.

Treatment

Despite being a ubiquitous condition, today, Cataract can easily be treated if the patient opts for surgery early. The specialized surgery replaces the cloudy lens with an artificial one that more or less restores a clear vision.

Retinopathy

Retinopathy is caused by Diabetes, and is worsened by high blood sugar (glucose) levels that are not controlled, which damage blood vessels in the retina over time. The light-sensitive tissue in your eye that is necessary for sharp vision is called the retina. Most patients with diabetes-related retinopathy do not exhibit any alterations in their vision until the condition aggravates. In others, the symptoms fluctuate. Common symptoms of the condition include blurry vision, poor night vision, and dark spots in your field of vision.

Treatment

A particular kind of drug is injected as a kind of treatment, along with surgery, which helps in repairing shrinking blood vessels in the retina.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is brought on by an elevated fluid pressure within the eye. Your optic nerve is harmed by the pressure, which alters how visual information is sent from your eyes to your brain. Undiagnosed and untreated glaucoma can cause blindness in one or both eyes as well as visual loss. Many times, glaucoma is inherited.

Glaucoma can be of two primary forms: Open-angle Glaucoma, which progresses slowly over time, and visual changes may not become apparent until the condition is advanced. Sudden onset of closed-angle Glaucoma is possible. It causes severe pain and rapidly results in blindness.

Treatment

Treatments for Glaucoma include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, and surgery to significantly lower eye pressure.

Refractive Eye Conditions

Having trouble focusing is a result of various refractive eye disorders. Your cornea and lens cause light to be incorrectly swirled as it travels through. All ages are affected by these refractive defects, which are rather prevalent worldwide. A few examples of refractive errors are Astigmatism, nearsightedness (Myopia), and Hyperopia (farsightedness).

Treatment

They’re some of the most easily treated disorders of the eye. An ophthalmologist from a good hospital in Dubai would do a thorough examination of your eye, and depending on the severity of your condition, would prescribe ointments, spectacles, contact lenses or some form of surgery, such as the Lasik procedure to treat the condition(s).

Now that we’ve learnt about the most common types of eye diseases and their treatment, let’s explore a few ways you can have a clear vision.

Schedule Regular Appointments

Just like how you book scaling appointments and general health check-ups, it’s important to see an ophthalmologist sometimes to assess your visual health. Some of the best Dubai hospitals for eye health include Dubai London Hospital, Quirónsalud, and Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle

Undeniably, our health is a reflection of our choices. Make it a habit of eating healthy, working out at least 30 minutes a day, cutting out tobacco and alcohol to see a visible difference in your overall well-being.

Protect your Eyes

This one goes without saying, you need to put a barrier in front of your eyes whenever there’s a risk of harming them. Besides wearing sunglasses, wear proper protective eyewear when playing sports or when working on household or professional tasks. Also, steer clear of extended eye strain from phones and computers. After every thirty minutes, take a minute to rest your eyes and concentrate on far-off objects. Now that you’ve read this article, take a moment to close your laptop or phone, and go out for a leisurely stroll.