The elderly experience dryness and an irritating sensation in the
eye. Is this normal to old age?
In old age there is a reduction in the secretion of tears which play an important role in
the protection of the eyes. Each time we blink, the eyelids wash the eye with the tears
secreated. Tears act as a lubricant and keep the eyes clean and moist. To prevent drying,
one should frequently wash the eyes with clean cold water. |
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What is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a condition where reading and other work needing close attention of the eye
becomes difficult. It normally commences from the age of 40 onwards. Periodical eye
check-up and use of clinically prescribed spectacles can improve vision. |
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What is Cataract?
In the normal eye the lens is clear and allows the normal passage of light. But when
Cataract develops, the lens becomes cloudy and prevents light from entering the eye. The
person who has cataract cannot see objects at a distance and vision could be hazy. If left
untreated, the cataract enlarges and the power of vision gradually reduces. |
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What is the treatment for Cataract?
If Cataract is detected early some improvement is vision can be achieved by wearing
glasses. But this vision can only be temporary. The person may eventually need surgery. |
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What are the types of Cataract surgery?
There are 2 types of surgery for Cataract.
1. Conventional type of surgery where the eye lens is removed and the patient is advised
to wear spectacles with thick lenses after 6 weeks.
2. Intra-Ocular Lens -(I.O.L) Surgery where an artificial lens is placed from where the
natural lens was removed. |
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| Conventional Cataract Surgery |
I.O.L Cataract surgery. |
Surgery can be performed by all Ophthalmologists
Simple instruments are sufficient
Normal vision is possible if the patient wears glasses 4-6 weeks after surgery.The
spectacles are thick, heavy and cause discomfort.
Size of the image will be enlarged. Field of vision will be reduced. |
Surgery can be performed only by trained specialists. Precision
instruments are needed
Normal vision will be restored in 7 days following surgery.
No such problem as spectacles are not needed
No such alteration.
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What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a condition caused by excessive pressure within the eye. Elders are
more susceptible to it. |
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What are the symptoms of Glaucoma?
Loss of eyesight and severe pain in the eyes are the main symtoms, but the disorder may
progress slowly without any symtoms, except a gradual loss of vision. That is why it is
important that elders should have their eyes tested at least once a year. |
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What is the treatment of Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is mostly treated by medicines to reduce the pressure within the eyeball.
Sometimes surgery may be needed. |
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What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Click here to know more about Retinopathy |
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What are the preventive measures one can take to minimise
eye-problems?
Proper vision ensures better quality of life. Most problems relating to the eye are either
preventable or treatable and old people should not accept failing sight as part of
becoming old. The following points are important..
- Yearly check-up of the eyes.
- Sufficient light while reading and writing.
- Avoid watching television constantly.
- Avoid looking directly at the sun.
- Avoid self-medication (especially eye-drops) for eye problems.
- Once glasses are prescribed they should be used constantly
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