Saturday, Jul 16, 2011
Gulf News
Dubai Cataracts are the leading cause of treatable blindness, particularly in developing countries, said Dr Tanveer Chaudhry, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Head of Ophthalmology at Agha Khan University Hospital (AKUH).
Speaking at a recent health awareness lecture organised at Esmaili Centre, Dubai, he explained that cataract surgery has revolutionised in the past 10 to 15 years.
“Surgery is quick and recovery is very rapid too. With modern day operations, complications rate has reduced as well. One should be aware of the symptoms cataract will produce and have it removed at appropriate time,” he added.
The lecture was organised by AKUH Representative office in Dubai as part of its community service programme.
He warned that squinting is mis-alignment of the eyes and is mostly seen in children, but most parents do not take steps to get it treated at an early age.
“Many squints are controlled with glasses only and surgery is done in remaining. Patching may be advised to improve the vision in the squinting eye surgery, if required should be done early than later as results are much better in childhood,” he said.
Poor compliance
He pointed out that diabetes is becoming a leading cause of blindness, mainly because of poor compliance. Most patients are not aware of the changes and damage they can get in their eyes through diabetes.
He advised that timely intervention using laser can prevent further damage. Regular check up with an eye doctor is must. If the disease is advanced then injections or surgery may be required.
Surgery is quick and recovery is very rapid too. With modern day operations, complications rate has reduced as well. One should be aware of the symptoms cataract will produce.”
Staff Report
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