A vitamin a day keeps cataracts away

Age-related cataract is one of the primary causes of blindness in both men and women in the world today.  There is no scarcity of naysayers who often criticize and downplay the many benefits of vitamin and dietary supplements, but clinical testing tells them otherwise. The same is applicable to those suffering from cataracts in Dubai. Studies and research suggest that vitamin supplements can boost an individual's eye health, drastically, and is just not a complete waste of money as the experts say.

 

Today, the most effective treatment for cataracts is to surgically remove the cloudy lens, and an artificial lens or an intraocular lens (IOL) is placed during the cataract surgery. No one knows the exact cause of cataracts, but researchers believe that it either hereditary as with certain infants and it mainly develops in older citizens due to oxidative stress, which damages certain enzymes and proteins in the eye's natural lens, causing the lens to take on a cloudy effect. Therefore, eating a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, every day will reduce the risk of cataract development, proves a recent study, says the Eye Surgeon in Dubai.

 

Individuals who are conscious of what they put in their mouth and religiously follow a healthy diet that includes colorful fruits, vegetables and whole grains can say goodbye to the development of cataracts. Antioxidant vitamins and phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of cataracts, especially the intake of vitamins A, C and E, lutein and zeaxanthin, on a daily basis. Therefore, make sure to include a healthy serving of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet to reduce the risk of cataracts developing at a later stage. Make sure to include fish, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet as well, as its associated with reducing the risk of cataracts or their progression.

 

Also, make sure to prevent Oxidative stress, which is a result of an imbalance between damaging free radicals roaming the body and the antioxidants that keep them at bay. In relation to eye health, oxidation affects proteins and fats in the lens to an extent where the lens becomes damaged and cloudy, leading to cataract. This damage to an otherwise healthy eye and development of cataracts can also be prevented by the consumption of healthy foods, particularly those containing antioxidants.

 

Recent research suggests that a healthy diet and vitamins is beneficial to boost eye health and may prevent cataracts. Some of their findings concluded the following,

 

·         Women and men whose diet contained the highest total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were less likely to develop cataracts as opposed to those with a diet that is low in antioxidants.

 

·         A diet that is extremely high in carbohydrates can increase the risk of cataracts.

 

·         Consuming food that is rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals can reduce the development of cataracts.

 

·         An increased intake of multiple antioxidants reduces the risk of cataracts.

 

·         A diet high in lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamin E from food and supplements can significantly reduce the risk of cataract. 

·         Cut down on sodium intake as salt may increase the risks of cataract formation.

 

·         Avoid fried or processed foods and sugary snacks and drinks.

 

Common Ophthalmology Terms Defined

Have you ever wondered what the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist is or any of these eye related terms that are used each time you visit the Eye Clinic in Dubai. The team at Clinic  shares the definitions of some common ophthalmology terms that you may not be familiar with. 

Cornea - This is the transparent layer that outlines the front of the eye. 

Astigmatism -An abnormality in the eye that prevents light rays from meeting at a common focal point, and causes multiple focal points to occur making images distorted. The condition is  characterized by an irregularly shaped cornea. 

Cataracts -  Cataracts in Dubai  are identified by a clouding of the eye lens that causes blurred vision and can progressively become worse and requiring surgical intervention to restore sight. 

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) - This condition is where there is a deterioration of the eye’s macula, a small area of the retina. 

Glaucoma - Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that is characterized by increased pressure in the eye. If  this condition is not treated it can cause permanent vision loss. 

Corneal Disease - This ailment affects the cornea. 

Hyperopia - This is farsightedness, where people find it difficult  to see things up close. 

LASIK - LASIK in Dubai is an acronym that stands for laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, a vision correction procedure that is performed to correct a refractive error in the eye.

Diabetic Eye Disease - Complications from diabetes can cause certain diseases that affect the eye, including diabetic retinopathy and other conditions.

Dry Eye – This condition that develops when there are insufficient tears to nourish and lubricate the eye. There are many causes for dry eye, including allergies, medication  and certain disorders.

Keratoconus - Keratoconus in Dubai is often a progressive corneal disease, which thins and creates a bulging effect of the normally round cornea, into a cone-like shape. 

 Intraocular -  This means “in the eye.” Thus, intraocular lens implants are artificial lenses that are implanted in the eye. 

Retina - The retina is light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye, onto which light is focused. The retina converts the light rays into impulses that are transmitted, through the optic nerve, to the brain, where they are interpreted into the image a person sees. 

Refractive Error -  A refractive error is a visual error that is caused by irregularities in the shape of the eye and prevents an individual’s eye from focusing properly, causing a myriad of problems. 

Macula -  It is located near the center of the retina and is a yellowish oval that is responsible for detailed central vision.

Myopia -  This is a condition called nearsightedness, where a patient has difficulty seeing things in the distance.

Ophthalmologist - This medical or osteopathic doctor specializes in the medical and surgical care of the eyes and visual system. 

Pterygium - This is called “surfer’s eye,” and is a condition, where the growth of a noncancerous lesion in the white part of the eye. It is caused by prolonged exposure to the sun or other ultraviolet light rays.

Presbyopia – This is farsightedness that is caused by a loss of elasticity of the eye lens.

PRK – Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is an alternative to LASIK. It improves vision by reshaping the curvature of the cornea to correct the refractive error causing the vision problem.

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Keeping A Watchful Eye On Cataracts

A very common condition that affects millions of people nationwide and in Dubai is Cataract, explains an Eye Surgeon Dubai. As  the population continues to age, the numbers keep increasing. Despite these escalating numbers of patients suffering from cataract, it is often manageable and treatable.

Here are some facts that everyone should know so that it can help you recognize Cataracts in Dubai and prevent permanent vision loss.

A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye, which restrains the passage of light into the eye and results in blurred or dimmed vision.  The lens is what helps to focus an image onto the retina, which transmits the images to the brain.

Cataracts usually develop as a natural result of the aging process and can occur in one or both eyes. Apart from aging, there are other risk factors for developing cataracts, which include,  long-term exposure to UV rays from the sun, certain health conditions such as diabetes, genetic predisposition, eye injuries, eye inflammation, long-term steroid use, smoking and long term use of other long term medications.

Research shows that cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss among adults who are 55 years and older.  Over half the population above the age 65 has some degree of cataract development. By the time people turn 80years of age,  it is likely that most people will have developed a cataract or had Cataract Surgery in Dubai to remove it.

When a person is diagnosed with cataract and at the early stages of cataract development, the patient can use stronger lighting and glasses.  Special lens coatings can also reduce glare, at some point, however, on the long run cataract surgery is required to improve a patient's vision. 

Cataract surgery is very common and involves the removal of the clouded lens and in most cases replaces it with a clear lens made from plastic, called an intraocular lens (IOL). New developments in IOLs are constantly being researched to perform the surgery, even less complicated and more successful in helping to restore vision in patients of all ages.

Cataract surgery has a very high success rate and most people who have the surgery regain their complete vision. Consult with your Eye Clinic in Dubai to get information about the pros and cons, alternatives and expected results of cataract surgery.

And the most important fact to remember is that to prevent permanent vision loss, regular eye exams and checkups are the solution. Therefore, if you are 65 years, you should have a yearly eye exam, even if you feel you have perfect vision.

Eventhough, cataracts are a natural part of aging, it is important to make sure that you care for your eyes your entire life. Don't forget to make sure to have a dilated exam at least once a year. This will ensure you are examined for the early stages of cataract development and for other types of eye and vision related problems and will also help to maintain your overall health.

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UV Light and Cataract Formation

UV light is not only a problem for your skin, Eye Surgeon in Dubai says that UV rays can be just as damaging to your eyes as well.

UV rays has been a suspect for a long time in the formation of cataracts. Cataracts are formed when the material in the viscose lens of the eye becomes cloudy, blocking light from reaching the retina and the sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. Cataracts are often associated with aging, but there are youngsters too who undergo Cataract Surgery in Dubai. Cataract in youngsters is present from birth and while the exact cause of this is unknown, many are hereditary.

Eventhough, UV light is accused of playing an important role in the creation of cataracts, the mechanism whereby it achieves this is vague and is a little bit of a mystery. However, a new study, just may, have the answer to this.

Oxidative Stress - Oxidative stress occurs in the normal process of cell function. As cells take in oxygen and other elements for the production of energy, harmful chemical reactions can happen as a consequence. The damage these chemical process causes to the body, contributes largely to the aging process and the occurrence of age-related health problems such as cataracts. Cataracts in Dubai are one of the most common causes of age-related vision disorders, as well as the most common reason for corrective surgical procedures. Oxidative stress has been considered a prime suspect of cataract formation.

Lens Cells - Normal cells are made of up proteins and water. The smaller structures inside these cells are called organelles and is vital to sustaining the processes that keeps these cells alive and healthy. But the cells within the eyes’ lenses lack these organelles, as the lens is not clear, allowing sunlight to pass through them.Therefore, these special lens cells do not receive oxygen.

Cataracts form when the oxidative stress damages the cells of the lens, disarranging the configurations of proteins that allow light to pass through them, and damaging the cells, causing them to clump together, producing obstacles to the transmission of light.

Researchers have shown that in the absence of oxygen, UV light can damage the proteins of the cells of the eye lens by a process called glycation, the damage is something similar to what is caused by oxidative stress. Therefore, eyes can suffer both the normal ageing process and damage caused by UV rays. The elements in the research report can certainly give a new perspective on how cataracts are formed and could lead to the discovery of medications that could one day eliminate them.

However, for the moment, the research report makes it evident that UV rays are harmful and therefore people should take steps to protect their eyes from UV light more than ever. Most Eye Clinic in Dubai can help people look for the best way to protect their eyes from UV light and harmful elements that cause damage to the eyes and assist in the formation of cataracts.

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Cataract Surgery in Dubai

Cataract Surgery in Dubai is one of the safest and most common forms of surgery that is performed. Today with the advances in technology, cataract treatment is less invasive, has a quick recovery period and enhances the quality of vision of a patient after the procedure.

Statistics show that cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in adults over 45years. Cataracts occur when a person's natural lens of the eyes becomes cloudy over time. Surgery is needed to remove and replace imperfect lenses.

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure. At the Ebsaar Eye Surgery Center, it only takes  short time to complete the treatment.  If  both eyes require Cataracts Dubai surgery, Dr. Hani Sakla will make arrangement to arrange the surgeries between a week or two apart.

The surgery process includes, firstly, dilating the eyes with special drops and thereafter a topical anesthesia is administered to numb the area and prepare for the surgery. Some patient's are given a sedative in addition to the anesthesia to make the patient feel relaxed during the procedure.

There are two types of cataract surgery performed. One uses the standard incision made with a knife, while HD cataract surgery uses the femtosecond laser. Cataract surgery typically consists of two elements such as,

Removal of the cataract- The Eye Surgeon in Dubai will make a small incision in the cornea. This is done manually or by advanced imaging systems. During the laser procedure, a precise 3D map is made of the eye, which guides the laser as it makes the incision. Thereafter, once the incision has been made in the cornea, a special probe is inserted into the cataract mass. Using sound waves, the cloudy matter is broken up and the  emulsified substance is then removed from the eye. The back part of the lens, called the lens capsule, and is left intact and in place to serve as a basis for a new lens.

Replacement of the lens - Once the cataract has been removed, a new lens is inserted into the eye. The lens that is fitted is a an IOL (intraocular lens) which comes in a variety of forms and materials and can be tailor-made to suit the patient's needs.

Once the surgery is completed, patients may experience some mild discomfort and itching that may last a few days after surgery. Vision will also be blurry for a few days as the eye heals and adjusts to the new lens. The patient will need to wear an eye shield to protect the eye during the post surgery  healing process. The Eye Clinic in Dubai may also prescribe eye drops to help with inflammation and to prevent post operative infections.

A  follow up visit is scheduled a day after the surgery to monitor healing, thereafter the patient will need to see the surgeon a week and then a month to ensure the eye is recovering properly. Once the surgery has healed and the eye is back to normal the surgeon will check the patient's eyesight again. Sometimes, the patient may need some form of glasses to aid vision.

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All about Ketatoconus

Any eye clinic in Dubai would have at some time or the other treated patients with various eye conditions including cataracts in Dubai and Keratoconus in Dubai.

Many of these conditions can be treated with lenses and corrective glasses if identified early, but if they are left unattended patients may need eye surgery in Dubai to correct their vision.

Keratoconus is one such eye condition which can even affect the young population as much as the elderly. This eye condition is one in which the middle section of the cornea starts to thin out. This will lead to the cornea made to bulge out to look almost like a cone shape. This will not only affect the eyes proportion but also it can impact the eye sight significantly.

Research is still being done to understand what causes this eye condition. One reason is found to be that frequent rubbing of the eyes can lead to this condition. It is not a common eye condition and in general seen in about one in two thousand people. Blurred vision and distortion are few of the early symptoms of this eye condition. This condition can be controlled and corrected in the early stages with corrective glasses and/or lenses. Frequent checkups will be required to keep track and monitor any changes and improvements as the power of the lens will need to be adjusted with the changes.

Though this eye condition may not lead to complete blindness it should still be diagnosed and treated in time before it can cause legal blindness. The best known treatment for keratoconus is known as cross linking. Eye doctors make use of riboflavin drops to saturate the cornea, which is activated with ultraviolet light. Laser will be used at the end to get the best result from the treatment and get the eye sight restored to their normal functionality and appearance. This will also automatically help to rectify other eye issues.

Another treatment option is the use of contact lenses implantation. This is the task of implanting contact lenses permanently which will correct issues related to focusing. This is a convenient method for individuals who are used to wearing contact lenses, but these individuals can never undergo laser eye surgeries.

Do ring up your eye clinic today to book an appointment if you are experiencing any difference in your vision, it could be something that can be easily treated if diagnosed early.

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If you look at any eye clinic in Dubai you tend to see more elderly patients than young.This has raised the concern that will everyone with age be at risk of an eye condition. As with all things in life, change is unavoidable when it comes to health related factors as well. Many of the best lasik in Dubai are sought after by the elderly population who are in need of cataract surgery in Dubai at one time or the other.

While proper eye care can help towards maintaining your vision without much deterioration with age, but some level of deterioration is to be expected. Opticians recommend regular check-ups to monitor eye conditions and will also be able to advice you on preventative steps towards any possible eye conditions and early treatment methods. It is not advised to delay regular eye check-ups or to wait till an eye condition worsens to visit the eye clinic as it can lead to more expensive and uncomfortable procedures if the vision is greatly affected. Treatments in the early stages are comparatively far easier for the patient. Cataracts in Dubai are one of the most common eye conditions that can be treated easily if diagnosed early. 

Our vision in the first 3 decades of our life will be at its best. Any common eye conditions at this age are also easily treatable with corrective glasses or lenses as the eyes are very healthy in the early years. It is best to start taking care of the eyes from these early days by protecting it from various hazardous conditions. Cigarette Smoke, UV Rays and long strain to the eyes can all lead to macular degeneration as we age. Sunglasses can help towards protecting your eyes from environmental hazards and by eating healthy and avoiding hazardous environments and smoke can help to preserve the eyes in their best possible condition for many years to come. 

By the time we reach the age of 40 – 50, it is common to start experiencing difficulties in carrying out simple tasks like reading and working at the computer. The eye lenses tend to start hardening by this age which affects the ability to focus on items as well as it was able to in the early years. As the years pass on various other eye conditions including cataracts and glaucoma will be experienced.

It is never too late to get your eyes checked and obtain the eye specialist advice on any corrective measures you need to take.

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