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FOR YOUR EYES ONLY by IHOR MAGUN, M.D. Our eyes are one of our most important organs. They are our door to the world. Yet we often neglect this important organ, even those of us who would not think of skipping routine medical examinations or visits to the dentist. Many eye problems develop without any abrupt changes or pain. They may progress without our attention until more serious treatment is necessary. Complete eye examinations should be performed at least every two or three years and this includes a thorough examination of not only vision, but internal and external evaluations of the eyes themselves. These evaluations should be done more frequently if there is any significant family history of eye disease or diabetes. Eye examinations for children are extremely important. Children can have vision problems which, at first, may manifest themselves as problems with reading and writing. They may not be able to let an adult know that the problem is due to a visual disturbance and not to a learning disability. In most adults, the normal aging process produces a decline in visual acuity. Other problems, such as ocular infections, can also arise. The most common superficial infection is conjunctivitis. It may be allergic, viral, bacterial, chlamydial or chemical. The most common conjunctivitis is viral. It produces a watery discharge, sometimes manifesting itself with eyelids sealed closed upon awakening. The condition can often be treated with compresses. Topical vasoconstrictors (eyedrops such as Visine) can also be helpful if used sparingly. Bacterial, chemical and other viral infections need medical or ophthalmological attention. Many people are affected by floaters, specks floating in our visual field. These are rather common though they can be frightening when first seen. Floaters are usually harmless, but ophthalmologic evaluation should be sought, especially if floaters are accompanied by light flashes as this may portend a more serious problem. In a normal eye, the lens, usually clear, permits light to enter the eye. A cataract occurs when there is a loss of transparency of the lens. This occurs gradually and frequently does not immediately affect vision. But undetected and untreated, cataracts will eventually cause problems with vision. For this reason, periodic eye examinations are important. If cataracts are found, the ophthalmologist will probably recommend surgery. Cataract surgery is safely performed and corrects the problem. The surgery is brief and done on an out-patient basis. Glaucoma occurs when there is increased fluid pressure in the eye. There is no pain associated with this condition, but if not controlled, blindness can occur. Treatments vary; they may consist of eyedrops, tablets, laser treatment or traditional surgery. The macula is responsible for sharp vision. With aging, macular degeneration can occur, producing blurring and loss of central vision. Early intervention is important and the condition can be corrected with laser treatment. The retina is found in the back of the eye and is composed of nerves which receive visual images and pass them on to the brain. Retinal detachment, the separation between the inner and outer layers of the retina, causes one-sided distortions of the visual image. The problem can be surgically corrected. People with diabetes must be especially careful to have routine eye examinations as they are commonly affected by a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. This is a leakage and closure of small vessels and growth of new blood vessels resulting in a loss of vision. Laser treatments are generally recommended. Good control of blood sugar appears to retard the progression of this condition. While it is emphasized that everyone should see a qualified ophthalmologist for periodic eye examinations, there are several good common sense precautions that can keep eyes healthier. Proper lighting, for example, is very important as it prevents muscular strain. Looking up occasionally when reading intently for prolonged periods of time serves the same purpose. Despite common belief, regular light bulbs are better light sources for older eyes than florescent lights. Sunglasses are also important. Everyone should wear proper sunglasses to protect the eyes from ultraviolet rays. Sunglasses without ultraviolet ray protection do little if any good and may actually do more harm because we assume we are protected while being exposed to harmful rays. Good quality, properly fitted sunglasses for children and adults can be purchased at a reasonable cost and should clearly state on the label that they offer protection from ultraviolet rays. Although most people in colder areas of the country don’t usually wear sunglasses during the winter months, they should probably be worn year-round whenever the sun is shining. ♦ 22 ’’НАШЕ ЖИТТЯ”, ТРАВЕНЬ 1998 Видання C оюзу Українок A мерики - перевидано в електронному форматі в 2012 році . A рхів C У A - Ню Йорк , Н . Й . C Ш A.
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