Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Senior ophthalmologist at Kamla Nehru Hospital, Dr Lalit Shrivastava, has said that diabetic retinopathy is a growing concern, primarily due to the persistent negligence of diabetic patients in managing their blood sugar levels.
In an exclusive chat with Free Press, Dr Shrivastava, who is also an advisory member of the Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, shared insights on various eye health issues.
Excerpts:
Glaucoma is a major concern. Why does surgery get delayed, and what are its symptoms?
Glaucoma is a condition where increased intraocular pressure (IOP) damages the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss or blindness. Symptoms include sudden, severe eye pain, cloudy or “steamy” vision, nausea and vomiting. High eye pressure is a major risk factor, but some people with normal IOP can also develop glaucoma. Surgery is usually delayed until the condition is under control to ensure a safer and more effective procedure.
What is diabetic retinopathy, and how is it linked to blood sugar levels?
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when abnormal blood flow damages the retina, leading to vision impairment. It is primarily caused by poor management of diabetes and hypertension. Consistently high blood sugar levels increase the risk, making regular monitoring essential. The HbA1C test is the best way to assess long-term blood sugar control. Studies show that lowering HbA1C levels can reduce the incidence and progression of retinopathy. Maintaining stable blood sugar and blood pressure levels is key to prevention.
What are “shuttlecock injuries” in eye?
Shuttlecock injuries in badminton can be serious because of the high speed and small size of the shuttlecock, which can fit into the eye’s orbit. These injuries range from corneal abrasions to severe globe ruptures. Wearing protective eyewear while playing is advisable to prevent such injuries.
What are hereditary eye diseases (HEDs), and how can they be managed?
Hereditary eye diseases affect various parts of the eye, including the retina, cornea, lens and optic nerve. Some of the most common HEDs include congenital corneal opacities, congenital cataracts, congenital glaucoma and retinitis pigmentosa. These conditions can cause poor vision, increased eye pressure, or difficulty seeing in different lighting conditions. People with a family history of such diseases should consider genetic counselling to assess their risks and make informed decisions regarding future pregnancies.
What dietary habits can help improve vision?
A diet rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C is beneficial for eye health. Food items like liver, fish oils, eggs and dairy products are excellent sources of Vitamin A. Orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes and pumpkin, also provide this essential nutrient. Leafy greens like kale and spinach are highly nutritious for the eyes. For Vitamin C, citrus fruits like oranges and lemons should be included in the diet.
What are latest advancements in eye research?
One of the most promising developments is the bionic eye, a visual prosthesis designed to restore sight in individuals with partial or total blindness. This experimental device works by stimulating the retina or visual cortex using implanted electrodes. Research in this field is ongoing, and it holds great potential for the future of vision restoration.
