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Smoking and Eye Health

December, 2024

Smoking is widely known to cause systemic health problems, ranging from cancer to cardiovascular disease. What is less widely appreciated, is that smoking has significant risks on the health of the eyes. As an eye surgeon in Oxford, I frequently encounter patients who are experiencing vision issues linked to smoking. This article aims to shed light on the impact of smoking on eye health, highlighting the specific conditions it can cause and the risks associated with both traditional cigarettes and vaping. Understanding these risks is crucial to protecting your vision and preventing irreversible damage.

The Impact of Smoking on Eye Health

Smoking has been shown to cause structural changes in the eyes, increasing the likelihood of vision-threatening conditions. We know that smokers are at heightened risk for several major eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye syndrome.

  1. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

One of the leading causes of vision loss in the elderly population of the UK, AMD affects the central part of the retina called the macula. This disease severely impairs central vision, making tasks like reading, recognising faces, and driving increasingly difficult. Smokers are more likely to develop AMD, and studies show that the progression to advanced forms of the disease is faster among those who continue smoking.

AMD presents in two forms: dry and wet. All cases begin with the dry form, which, if untreated, may progress to the wet form, where vision loss can be rapid. Unfortunately, while treatments can slow progression in some cases, there is no cure for AMD. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective preventive measures individuals can take.

  1. Cataracts

Cataracts are a common condition among smokers, with research indicating that smokers are twice as likely to develop them as non-smokers. Cataracts cause the eye’s clear lens to become cloudy, resulting in blurred vision and dulling of colours. While cataract surgery can restore vision, avoiding smoking can help delay or prevent the onset of this condition.

  1. Diabetic Retinopathy

Patients with diabetes, smoking poses a particularly dangerous risk for the eye health. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in the retina. This leads to blurry or distorted vision, and without intervention, can progress to blindness. Smokers with diabetes face an increased risk of developing this sight-threatening condition. Treatment options include medication, laser therapy, or surger. However, with all things prevention is better than cure: quitting smoking is a fantastic thing to do.

  1. Dry Eye Syndrome and Uveitis

Smoking dries out the eyes and irritates the delicate tissues, causing symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Smokers are more than twice as likely to suffer from dry eyes as non-smokers, with common symptoms including a scratchy or burning sensation. Additionally, smoke-induced inflammation can lead to uveitis, a painful condition affecting the retina and iris. Uveitis can increase the risk of glaucoma and cataracts, further compromising vision.

Vaping and Eye Health

Life is changing constantly, and accordingly so are smoking habits. The impact of vaping on eye health is still being studied, but current research suggests that e-cigarettes pose risks due to the chemicals they contain. Although vaping doesn’t produce tar or carbon monoxide like cigarettes, it can still cause irritation and dryness in the eyes. Additionally, e-cigarettes often have higher nicotine concentrations, and recent concerns have been raised about the unknown effects of other substances in these products.

With new legislation set to ban single-use vapes in England by June 2025, public health officials are also concerned about the potential for some vapers to return to traditional cigarettes, which carry even greater risks to eye health.

Protecting Your Vision

The connection between smoking and eye health is clear: smoking accelerates the risk of severe, sight-threatening eye conditions. If you are a smoker or vaper, taking steps to quit can make a profound difference in protecting your vision. We encourage you to seek support for quitting smoking, and to schedule regular eye exams with an eye surgeon in Oxford or in your area to monitor your eye health.

For more information or to book an appointment with Gurjeet Jutley, Eye Surgeon in Oxford

Managing Screen Time for Healthy Eyes

October, 2024

In today’s technology-driven world, the use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers is common place. While these devices are essential for work, communication, and entertainment, prolonged use can adversely affect our eye health. Gurjeet Jutley, an expert ophthalmologist based in Oxford is dedicated to helping you understand and manage digital eye strain effectively and provides a short guide on this topic below.

Understanding Digital Eye Strain
Causes and Risk Factors
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome (CVS), arises from the intense visual demands of focusing on a screen. Unlike reading printed text, digital screens often have reduced contrast, glare, and reflections, making viewing more challenging. Additionally, the specific angles and distances involved in screen use require extra effort from the eyes.
Uncorrected vision problems can exacerbate the symptoms of digital eye strain. People with vision issues might experience increased discomfort and strain when using screens. Moreover, even those with correct prescriptions might find their glasses unsuitable for screen viewing distances, leading to poor posture and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back.

Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain
The most common symptoms associated with digital eye strain include:
• Eyestrain: Feeling tired or fatigued in the eyes after extended screen use.
• Headaches: Persistent headaches caused by prolonged focusing efforts.
• Blurred Vision: Difficulty in maintaining clear vision or shifting focus.
• Dry Eyes: Reduced blinking rates leading to insufficient tear distribution.
• Neck and Shoulder Pain: Poor posture from leaning towards the screen or awkward head positions.

These symptoms often depend on the individual’s visual capabilities and the amount of time spent on digital screens. While many symptoms are temporary and diminish after screen use, some may persist, leading to further complications if not addressed.

Managing and Reducing Digital Eye Strain
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule To alleviate eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple exercise allows your eyes to reset and reduces strain.
Adjust Screen Settings Optimize your screen settings by reducing brightness, enlarging text size, and minimizing glare. Position your screen about 25 inches from your eyes and slightly below eye level to maintain a comfortable viewing angle.

Blink Frequently Consciously blinking more often helps maintain eye moisture and prevents dryness. Consider using artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated during prolonged screen use.
Use Blue Light Filters Many devices offer blue light filtering settings, or you can use blue light blocking glasses to reduce the potential harm from prolonged exposure to high-energy visible (HEV) light emitted by screens.
Maintain Good Posture Ensure that your seating and screen setup promote good posture. Keep your feet flat on the floor, your screen at eye level, and avoid leaning towards your device.

Importance of Professional Consultation
Regular eye examinations are crucial in managing digital eye strain. As an experienced Eye Surgeon based in Oxford, Gurjeet Jutley emphasises the importance of professional consultation for:
• Comprehensive Assessments: Identifying the presence of digital eye strain and any underlying vision issues.
• Tailored Advice: Offering personalized solutions and visual aids based on your specific needs and lifestyle.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Ensuring that your preventive measures and treatment plans are effective and up-to-date through regular follow-ups.

By implementing these practical tips and seeking professional care, you can significantly reduce the impact of digital eye strain and maintain healthy eyes in a digital world.
For expert advice and comprehensive eye care, contact Gurjeet Jutley, Cataract and Glaucoma Surgeon in Oxford

Myopia Management: Your Guide to Clear Vision

Myopia Guide by Gurjeet Jutley
May, 2024

As we observe Myopia Awareness Week from May 13th to 19th, it gives us an opportunity to explore this prevalent eye condition affecting millions worldwide. In this article, Gurjeet Jutley, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Eye Surgeon in Oxford, aims to raise awareness and provide in-depth insights into the diagnosis, causes, symptoms, and management of myopia.

What is Myopia?

Myopia, commonly referred to as near-sightedness or short-sightedness, is a refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear. By 2050, it’s estimated that half the global population, around five billion people, will be affected by myopia. This condition can significantly impact daily activities such as driving, reading, and watching television. Myopia is typically diagnosed during routine eye exams, where visual acuity and refraction tests are performed to assess the extent of near-sightedness.

Causes and Risk Factors

Myopia occurs when the eyeball is too long, resulting in a mismatch between the focus point of the lens and the position of the retina. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, with myopia often running in families. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as prolonged close-up activities, increased screen time, and limited outdoor exposure during childhood have been linked to the development of myopia. Environmental factors, including urbanisation and educational demands, also contribute to the rising prevalence of myopia worldwide.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of myopia in children may include sitting close to screens, frequent eye rubbing, and complaints of tiredness or headaches. Adults may experience difficulty reading distant objects, eye strain, headaches, and ‘squinting’. Diagnosis involves comprehensive eye exams, including visual acuity and refraction. Early detection and intervention are crucial for effectively managing myopia and preventing further vision impairment.

Complications and Management

Severe myopia can increase the risk of complications such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, neovascular membranes and cataracts. Myopia management aims to reduce progression, particularly in young age, and prevent sight-threatening conditions. Options include corrective eyeglasses, contact lenses, and specialty lenses proven to slow myopia progression. Orthokeratology, a non-surgical treatment involving the use of specially designed contact lenses to reshape the cornea, has shown promising results in controlling myopia progression in children. Laser visual correction, refractive surgery or clear lens extraction may be considered for adults with stable prescriptions.

Prevention and Lifestyle Changes

While there is no cure for myopia, certain lifestyle changes can help manage the condition and reduce progression. Limiting screen time, maintaining proper reading distances, taking regular breaks, spending time outdoors, and ensuring well-lit environments can all contribute to reducing myopia progression. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and timely intervention. Myopia management programs, tailored to individual needs, play a crucial role in preserving vision and ensuring optimal eye health.

Let’s raise awareness and take proactive steps towards managing myopia during Myopia Awareness Week and beyond.

For further information on myopia, its implications, and available treatments, contact expert ophthalmologist in Oxford, Gurjeet Jutley.

A guide to nutrition for healthy eyes

May, 2024

Nourish Your Vision: A Guide to Nutrition for Healthy Eyes

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of proper nutrition for maintaining optimal eye health. As a consultant ophthalmologist specialising in cataract and glaucoma procedures, Mr. Gurjeet Jutley understands the critical role that nutrition plays in supporting vision. In this article, Mr Jutley explores the connection between nutrition and eye health, focusing on key nutrients that promote healthy eyesight and suggesting dietary sources to incorporate into your daily meals.

Why Nutrition Matters for Eye Health

The eyes are complex organs that rely on a variety of nutrients to function optimally. A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect against a variety of conditions, including age-related macular degeneration and dry eyes. By nourishing your body with the right nutrients, you can support the health of your eyes and potentially reduce the risk of developing certain eye conditions.

Essential Nutrients for Eye Health

Vitamin A: Essential for maintaining good vision, particularly in low light conditions. Foods rich in vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, and liver.
Vitamin C: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting the eyes from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli are excellent sources of vitamin C.
Vitamin E: Another powerful antioxidant that helps protect the eyes’ cells from damage caused by free radicals. Incorporate foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, and avocado into your diet to boost your vitamin E intake.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the retina and supporting overall eye health. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3s, as are flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Tips for Incorporating Eye-Healthy Foods into Your Diet

Starting with a nutritious breakfast that includes fruits high in vitamin C, such as oranges or strawberries, and a handful of nuts rich in vitamin E is not only recommendable, but also delicious.
Incorporate leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens into your salads, smoothies, or stir-fries for a boost of vitamin A and other essential nutrients.
Snack on raw vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and celery sticks dipped in hummus or Greek yogurt for a satisfying and eye-friendly snack.
Include omega-3-rich foods like salmon, tuna, or flaxseed oil in your meals at least twice a week to support healthy vision.

If you’re experiencing any vision-related concerns or are interested in learning more about how to maintain healthy eyesight through nutrition, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mr. Jutley, in Oxford. With his extensive experience in cataract and glaucoma procedures, Mr. Jutley is committed to helping you achieve and preserve optimal vision for years to come.

Incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your diet is a simple yet powerful way to support the health of your eyes. By prioritising nutrition and consulting with a knowledgeable eye care professional like Mr. Jutley, you can take proactive steps towards safeguarding your vision and enjoying a lifetime of healthy eyesight.

Gurjeet Jutley's role at the Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM)

October, 2023

We are thrilled to share the exciting news regarding Gurjeet Jutley’s role at the Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM) as part of the new Veterinary Department at the University.

The introduction of the Veterinary Department signifies a significant expansion in the educational opportunities’ the university has to offer, and it aligns perfectly with Gurjeet’s passion for teaching and his expertise in statistics. Gurjeet is honoured to be one of the teachers chosen to impart statistical knowledge to the enthusiastic and talented students who are embarking on their journey to become veterinarians.

Teaching statistics to students in the veterinary field holds immense potential. Statistics plays a crucial role in research, clinical practice, and decision-making within all medical and veterinary professions. By equipping these future veterinarians with a strong foundation in statistics, Gurjeet is not only enhancing their analytical skills but also empowering them to contribute meaningfully to the field’s advancements.

Starting this semester, Gurjeet Jutley will also have the privilege of teaching Neuropharmacology and Biochemistry at the Psychology Department of the University!

You might wonder, “Why is an ophthalmologist teaching neuropharmacology and biochemistry in psychology?!” The answer lies in the fascinating overlap of these disciplines as of course embryologically the eye is an extension of the brain!

Mr Jutley hopes to bring a fresh perspective that can enhance collective learning. His goal is to ignite student’s curiosity and foster a deep appreciation for the complex relationship between the neuronal pathways and human behaviour. Gurjeet and the team at Clinica Guirao are looking forward to seeing the Veterinary and Psychology Department at Catholic University of Murcia flourish in the years to come.

 

Image Courtesy: Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM) 

How to manage dry eyes during Spain’s hot summers

September, 2023

Spain is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations and a must visit to enjoy the sun. While these provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation, when the mercury ticks too high, it can create problems. With climate change, summers in Spain are becoming even hotter and longer.

If you’re prone to dry eyes, then this can present significant challenges. The combination of intense heat, glaring sunlight, and increased reliance on air conditioning, can all exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

In this blog, Gurjeet Jutley examines the topic of dry eyes and advises on what preventative measures you can take during the extreme heat.

 

Understanding Dry Eyes 

Dry eye syndrome is caused when either eyes do not produce enough tears or tears evaporate rapidly. This leaves eyes feeling dry and irritated and can potentially lead to blurred vision as well as discomfort. A range of factors can contribute to dry eyes, including heat, age, medications and medical conditions. Lengthy use of screens and contact lenses can also contribute.

 

Intense sunlight and high temperatures can exacerbate evaporation, leaving eyes without the lubrication they need. This can be a particular problem if you spend an extended period outdoors in the heat. Air-conditioned indoor spaces can also be challenging due to their low humidity levels, contributing to dry eyes.

 

Managing Dry Eyes During a Spanish Summer

What can you do to manage the discomfort caused by dry eyes during the hot weather?

 

  • Keep Hydrated

Ensure you remain hydrated by drinking sufficient amounts of water. During hot weather, this is likely to be more than usual. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining tear production.

 

  • Use Eye Drops

Over-the-counter lubricant eye drops can provide relief from the discomfort of dry eyes by helping to lubricate the eye. Always follow the instructions provided on the packaging.

 

  • Remember to Blink

Intentional blinking helps to spread tears evenly across the surface of your eyes. This is particularly important if you’re spending long periods of time focusing on screens, or you’re spending extended periods in air-conditioned environments.

 

  • Protect Your Eyes

Wearing sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays will shield your eyes from harmful sunlight while helping to reduce the rate of tear evaporation. Wrap-around styles can also provide additional protection from wind and dust.

 

  • Manage Screen Time

Extended periods of screen time can reduce blink frequency, contributing to dry eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

 

  • Raise Humidity Levels

Higher humidity helps to counteract the impact of heat on your eyes. If you have air conditioning, consider using a humidifier to help maintain a comfortable level of indoor humidity. This can help prevent rapid evaporation of tears.

 

  • Nutrition

There is evidence that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help promote healthy tear production. These are found in foods such as oily fish, walnuts and flaxseed. They also have a range of other health benefits making omega-3 a popular supplement.

 

  • Stay Indoors

During very hot periods it’s sensible for a range of health reasons, not least avoiding dry eyes, to remain indoors. This is particularly important during the hottest time of the day. This is usually between 10 am and 4 pm.

 

  • Review Your Medication

In some instances, certain medications may be exacerbating dry eye problems. If you are taking medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist to ask about possible side-effects such as dry eye. If necessary, it may be possible to change medications for one that is less likely to cause a problem with your eyes.

 

  • Consult an Ophthalmologist

If you are experiencing persistent, severe and painful dry eye symptoms, then it’s important to consult an ophthalmologist. They can recommend appropriate treatments, including prescription eye drops or other therapies. They can also check your overall eye health.

 

Gurjeet Jutley at Clinic Guirao

You can now receive eye care from Dr. Gurjeet Jutley at the Clinica Guirao in Murcia. He’s looking forward to building on his extensive within the UK.

If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment please contact the clinic.

The Do’s & Don’ts of Using Eye-Drops

May, 2023

Eye drops are practical, simple-to-use medical treatment for a range of eye conditions, as well as alleviating symptoms such as itchiness, burning, and discomfort in the eye. Eye drops are prescribed by an ophthalmologist to prevent eye infections or to aid recovery from surgery.

Prescribed eye drops should be used as directed. This is important because eye drops are formulated in a particular way for maximum safety and effectiveness. If they’re used improperly, at best they will be ineffective, at worse they could lead to adverse effects.

In this article, Gurjeet Jutley looks at some of the ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ to keep in mind when using eye drops.

 

The Do’s of Using Eye Drops 

When using eye drops, there are certain things you should do to ensure that they work effectively and to minimise the risk of complications. These include:

  • Store In A Cool Dry Place

It’s important to store eyedrops in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Exposure to sunlight can degrade the quality of the medication over time.

  • Check Your Drops Before Use

Contaminated eye drops can introduce harmful bacteria or other pathogens into the eyes, potentially leading to infections or other complications. Do not use eye drops that have expired or appear cloudy, discoloured, or contain particles.

  • Wash Your Hands Thoroughly

Firstly, always wash your hands thoroughly before administering the drops. This helps to prevent introducing harmful bacteria to your eyes, which could cause infections.

  • Follow The Instructions

Always follow the instructions provided by the ophthalmologist or as stated on the packaging carefully. This includes the correct dosage, the frequency of administration, and the duration of use. Overusing eye drops could lead to unwanted side effects or even damage to the eye. Always check the expiration date on the packaging.

  • Wait Between Using Different Drops

If you’re using more than one type of eye drop, ensure that you wait for at least five minutes between administering each drop. This prevents the first drop from being washed away before it has had a chance to work.

 

The Don’ts Of Using Eye Drops

There are some important things to remember not to do when using eye drops. These include: 

  • Don’t Share Eye Drops

It’s important that you only use eye drops that have been prescribed to you. Eye drops are medication and sharing them can lead to allergic reactions or the spreading of infections.

  • Don’t Touch The Dropper Tip

The dropper tip of the eye drop bottle should never come into contact with your fingers or any other surface, as this can introduce harmful bacteria into the bottle and potentially cause an infection.

  • Don’t Use Expired Eye Drops

Expired eye drops can lose their effectiveness or even become contaminated, so it’s important to check the expiration date and dispose of any old drops.

  • Don’t Rub Your Eyes After Using Eye Drops

Rubbing your eyes after applying eye drops can cause the medication to be rubbed away or even spread to other parts of your face, such as your nose or mouth. It’s best to wait a few minutes before touching your eyes or using any other products around your eyes.

  • Don’t use multiple types of eye drops simultaneously

Different types of eye drops can interact with each other, leading to side effects or decreased effectiveness. If you have been prescribed multiple types of eye drops, make sure you understand how and when to use each one and in what order.

 

Effective treatment for a range of conditions

Eye drops are an effective, simple and easy to use medication for a wide range of eye conditions including dry eyes, glaucoma, allergies and infections. They are easy to use and can provide quick relief without the need for more invasive treatments.

However, it is important to use eye drops as directed and to follow the do’s and don’ts of eye drop use to ensure that they are effective and safe. If you have any questions or concerns about using eye drops, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or eye care specialist.

Contact Gurjeet Jutley for advice about all aspects of eye health and treatment.

A quick guide to lens replacement surgery

March, 2023

Lens replacement surgery, also known as lens exchange or lens replacement, is a surgical procedure in which the natural lens inside the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. It can be a very valid option instead of wearing contact lenses or glasses.

In this blog, Gurjeet Jutley provides a quick guide to lens replacement surgery and outlines what you can expect.

 

Is lens replacement surgery the same as cataract surgery?

Lens replacement surgery is sometimes confused with cataract surgery, and while there are similarities there are also differences. Cataract surgery involves removing a cloudy lens to improve vision. In lens replacement surgery, the lens is fairly clear and the object of removal is to improve the refraction, i.e. the ability to see without using glasses.

 

What artificial lenses are available?

There are a number of different types of artificial lenses that can be used depending on the particular needs of the patient. Multifocal lenses can help you see clearly at all distances. If someone also has astigmatism as well, toric multifocal lenses can be used to correct it.

Recently, extended depth of focus implants (EDOF) has been introduced. These feature a different design from traditional multifocal lenses and can provide an enhanced depth of focus. They can also reduce a range of visual disturbances, such as starbursts, halos and glare, all of which may occur when traditional multifocal lenses are used.

The key thing is the right choice for each individual patient, i.e. an informed decision.

 

What does the procedure involve?

The procedure for lens replacement surgery is performed in a similar way to cataract surgery.  The patient is awake during the surgery and can be given a sedative to help them relax if required.

The procedure will usually only take around 15-30 minutes and the patient is able to return home on the same day as their surgery. Each eye is operated on separately usually with a gap of one or two weeks between each procedure. It’s easier for the brain to adjust to the new information it is receiving if the second eye is operated on as soon as the first eye has recovered.

 

Recovering from lens replacement surgery

After the surgery is completed your eye will be covered with a protective pad and shield that you will need to keep in place for the first 24 hours. This will limit your vision, so you will need someone to escort you home safely. You will then need to wear it at night for the following week. This is to limit the risk of your eye being rubbed while you’re sleeping which can damage the site where the cut was made.

Blurred vision for a few days after surgery is common but should gradually clear up. Vision will eventually stabilise between two to four weeks. Eye drops will usually be required for about four weeks. These reduce the risk of an infection occurring and can aid the healing process.

It’s important to avoid vigorous exercise and swimming for at least two weeks following surgery. The use of computers and other screens should also be limited or avoided. It’s possible to begin driving as soon as you are able to meet the DVLA requirement to read a licence plate number from 20 metres away.

 

For confidential and professional advice about your lens replacement surgery or to book a consultation contact Gurjeet Jutley today.

How to treat astigmatism

February, 2023

Astigmatism is a common visual finding that most commonly affects the shape of the cornea and can cause distorted or blurry vision. It is essential to properly diagnose and treat astigmatism to maintain good vision and eye health.

 

In this article, Gurjeet Jutley discussed the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for astigmatism.

 

What is astigmatism and how is it caused?

 

The eye has two structures, the cornea and the lens, that have curved surfaces. These bend, or refract, light onto the retina to make images. The cornea is the clear front surface of the eye alongside the tear film, and the lens is a clear structure inside the eye that changes shape to help the eye focus on near objects.

 

When an eye is perfectly spherical in shape each of these elements will have a round curvature. This allows the cornea or lens to refract all incoming light equally to create a sharply focused image directly on the retina at the back of the eye.

 

Astigmatism is caused when there is an irregularity in the shape of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, or the curvature of the lens inside the eye. This irregular curvature causes multiple focus points, causing blurred vision.

 

One can have either corneal astigmatism, lenticular astigmatism or both. Hence astigmatism can occur in combination with other vision conditions such as nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia), cataract, etc.

 

 

What are the common symptoms of astigmatism?

 

Some of the common symptoms of uncorrected astigmatism are:

 

  • Distorted or blurred vision
  • Discomfort or eyestrain
  • Headaches

 

A refraction can help identify and correct astigmatism by implementing treatment. Hence the importance of regular eye tests, encompassing:

 

  • Visual acuity test

 

This measures how clearly you can make out letters or symbols from a distance.

 

  • Retinoscopy

 

This involves shining a light into the eye to measure the reflection.

 

  • Keratometry

 

This is a test that’s used to measure the curvature of the cornea to determine the presence and degree of astigmatism.

 

  • Corneal topography

 

This creates a detailed map of the front surface of the eye and can help to identify corneal abnormalities including astigmatism.

 

 

How is astigmatism treated?

 

Astigmatism is treated either by wearing corrective lenses or through refractive surgery.

 

  • Corrective lenses

 

Corrective lenses in the form of glasses or contact lenses help to compensate for the uneven shape of the eye. Lenses corrects the light to bend into one focal point.

 

  • Refractive surgery

 

Refractive surgery can improve correct astigmatism, improve vision overall and reduce the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. The surgery can be at the level of the cornea or lens, such as toric lenses.

 

 

If you are having difficulties with your vision or have any of the possible symptoms of astigmatism outlined above it’s important to seek an examination as soon as possible. For further advice regarding astigmatism or to book a consultation contact Gurjeet Jutley today.

When can I start normal activities after cataract surgery?

September, 2022

Although each case is different, your vision should begin to get back to normal within a few days of having the procedure.

 

Whilst cataract surgery is common, a reasonable period of recovery time is still needed, and when you get home you will want to rest and recuperate for a while.

 

In this article, Gurjeet Jutley explains what you can expect after cataract surgery, and how long it will take until you can get back to your normal activities.

 

Going Home

 In most cases, you should be able to go home on the same day as your surgery. You will usually have a pad and plastic shield across your treated eye, and this can normally be removed the day after surgery. Feeling should begin to return to your eye within a few hours of the procedure, but it may take several days for your vision to return to normal.

 

Initially, you may experience a number of different side effects including grittiness, watering, blurred vision, and a red or bloodshot eye. These should begin to ease within a few days, but in some cases, some side effects may linger for a few weeks. If you have any concerns, always seek help.

 

Driving

As cataract surgery involves anaesthesia you will not be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. It’s therefore important to ensure that you have alternative travel arrangements in place. You will be able to drive again within days of surgery providing you don’t experience any blurriness or other side effects that restrict your vision.

 

It can be prudent to err on the side of caution and wait a little longer if possible before resuming activities such as driving to give your eye more time to heal.

 

Daily Activities

Ordinary daily activities can be carried out the same or the following day after your procedure as long as due caution is exercised. This can include activities such as preparing food and domestic tasks.

 

Returning to work

Normally, you should be able to return to work within a few days of your surgery. However, if your work involves heavy lifting, takes place in a dusty environment or is physically demanding, then you should remain off work for a longer period to allow for a full recovery.

 

Avoid Strenuous Activity

 Recovery for most people is straightforward, but it’s important to avoid any strenuous activities in the days immediately following your surgery. What counts as strenuous will differ from person to person but after a week of recovery following your surgery you may be able to restart light aerobic exercises.  This might include walking or jogging on a treadmill, but you should avoid any high-intensity activities. You shouldn’t carry out any exercises which involve putting your head below your waist, as bending down places strain and pressure on your eyes.

 

Any intense exercise will cause the pressure in your eye to rise so keeping this pressure at a low level will assist with faster healing. When your eye is recovering it’s very important that it remains sterilised and clean in order to help it heal without an adverse reaction.

 

Avoid swimming for at least two weeks

It’s recommended that you do not swim underwater for at least two weeks post-surgery to reduce the risk of developing an infection. Water can carry a range of bacteria that may be harmful to your eyes as they heal.

 

It’s also important to remember this when showering, taking a bath or washing your hair immediately after your surgery. It’s always recommended that you try to wash your hair with your head tilted backwards to reduce the risk of shampoo getting in your eyes.

 

 

 

 

 

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