EYE CONDITIONS

This blog is mainly aimed at Ophthalmologists and Patients. The purpose is to educate each other about latest research and surgical techniques. If you wish to write a guest blog, please drop me a line.

RETINAL DETACHMENT

What is the retina? Imagine that your eye is like a camera, and the retina is a photographic film. The retina is a fine sheet of nerve tissue lining the inside of the eye (see diagram). Rays of light enter the eye and are focused onto the retina by the lens. The retina produces a […]

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)

  Glaucoma is a common eye condition that can lead to vision loss if not properly managed. One of the treatments available is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), a laser procedure designed to lower eye pressure. Here, Dr. Rehman Siddiqui will answer frequently asked questions about SLT to help you understand how it works and its […]

Vabysmo (Faricimab) for treatment of retinal diseases

Vabysmo (faricimab-svoa) is a medication used to treat certain eye conditions that can lead to vision loss. Administered as an injection directly into the eye by a healthcare professional, it works by targeting specific proteins that cause abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage. This helps improve and maintain your vision. Which eye conditions does Vabysmo […]

Vivity Intraocular Lens (IOL)

Introduction to Cataract Surgery and Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)   What is a cataract? A cataract occurs when the natural lens in your eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision. This condition is common as people age and can make it difficult to see clearly, especially in low light conditions. Cataracts may cause colors to appear […]

Stargardt Disease- ABCA4 Retinopathy

Stargardt disease, also known as ABCA4 retinopathy, is a genetic eye condition that affects the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. This disease often begins in childhood or adolescence, but it can also start in adulthood. It is the most common form of inherited juvenile macular degeneration, meaning it primarily affects the […]

Why Should You Get Screening Eye Exam at Age 40

  As we age, our bodies go through many changes, and our eyes are no exception. One important milestone in eye health is turning 40. This is the age when many people start to notice changes in their vision. That’s why getting a comprehensive eye exam at age 40 is crucial. Here’s why this screening […]

OPTOS Ultra wide field (UWF) Retinal Imaging

In the realm of eye health, advancements in technology continue to revolutionize the way we detect and manage retinal diseases. One such breakthrough is the Optos California device, a cutting-edge tool that offers a comprehensive view of the retina, aiding in the early detection and effective management of conditions such as retinal tears, retinal detachment, […]

Clareon® -Alcon Monofocal IOL

  Cataract surgery is a transformative procedure that has evolved significantly over the decades. The surgery involves the removal of the eye’s natural lens when it has become clouded, a condition known as cataract. This clouding is often the result of natural aging but can also be caused by other factors such as diabetes, prolonged […]

Scleral Buckling Surgery for Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is an alarming condition that necessitates immediate intervention to safeguard vision. Simply put, in retinal detachment, the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye pulls away from its supportive tissue. It’s like wallpaper peeling off from a wall. If left untreated, this condition can result in severe vision loss or […]

Diabetic Macular Edema- Risk Factors and Treatment Options

What is Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)? Diabetic Macular Edema is a medical condition that can occur in people who have diabetes. In this condition, fluid builds up in a specific part of your eye called the “macula.” The macula is vital for our sharp vision, which we use for reading, driving, and recognizing faces. When […]

Anti-VEGF injections

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections are therapeutic agents commonly used for treating specific eye diseases that cause vision impairment or blindness. This guide elucidates the indications, risks, procedure details, and alternative treatment options for patients considering anti-VEGF injections as part of their medical regimen. What is Anti-VEGF? Vascular [...]

HLA-B27 related Uveitis

    WHAT IS HLA-B27 RELATED UVEITIS? HLA-B27 related uveitis refers to inflammation of the uvea, a part of the eye, associated with the presence of the HLA-B27 gene. The uvea contains many of the blood vessels that nourish the eye. Inflammation in this area can affect the iris, ciliary body, or the choroid, which […]

Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO)

  What is a Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)? Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a blockage or occlusion of a vein that carries blood away from the retina of the eye. The retina is the tissue located at the back of the eye responsible for vision. When the vein is blocked, blood and fluid accumulate in […]

Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO)

  What is a Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)? Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a blockage or occlusion of a vein that carries blood away from the retina of the eye. The retina is the tissue located at the back of the eye responsible for vision. When the vein is blocked, blood and fluid accumulate in […]

Vitreo-Macular Traction Syndrome (VMTS)

  What is Vitreomacular Traction Syndrome (VMTS)? Vitreomacular traction is a condition that occurs when the gel-like substance in the center of the eye (vitreous) pulls on the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. This traction can cause the retina to become detached, leading to vision loss. What causes Vitreomacular Traction […]

Presbyopia

What is presbyopia? To focus on near objects we change the shape of our natural lens. As we grow older, the lens becomes less and less flexible.  Presbyopia is the gradual loss of the ability to focus on near objects. This age-related deficit in near vision can be confirmed by a simple eye exam. What […]

Face-Down Position After Retinal Surgery

Following a vitrectomy procedure for retinal detachment, most patients, are required to keep their face down for, at least, 4 hours. Many patients are advised face-down posturing after vitrectomy for other vitreoretinal diseases as well. For example patients are advised face-down posturing for 24 hours after macular hole surgery. The duration of face down varies […]

Uveitis

The uveal tract or uvea is the middle layer of the inside of the eye (red coloured layer in the diagram). When all or part of the uvea becomes inflamed, the condition is called uveitis. Uveitis has many possible causes and may be linked to inflammations elsewhere in the body, but in many people, the cause […]

Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Phakic IOL

What is Phakic Intra-Ocular Lens (ICL) Surgery? Phakic Intra-Ocular Lens (ICL) surgery is a refractive surgery procedure that uses a small, clear lens to correct vision in people with moderate to high levels of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism. The lens is implanted in the eye, in front of the natural lens, without removing […]

Multifocal IOL

Cataract surgery is a common and highly successful procedure performed by eye surgeons like yourself in Pakistan and around the world. It’s a life-changing surgery that can significantly improve a patient’s vision and overall quality of life. However, like any surgical procedure, it comes with its own set of considerations, and one of them is […]

Instructions after Cataract Surgery

Your cataract surgery was performed yesterday.  Please watch this video carefully and follow the instructions as advised. The eye may be watery for 24  hours and vision a little blurred initially. However, if you have severe pain in the eye, contact the emergency number.    REMEMBER: When taking more than one kind of eye drops […]

Cataract Phaco Surgery with TORIC lens

  What is astigmatism? Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Instead of being perfectly round like a football, the cornea or lens may be shaped more like a rugby ball, resulting in light […]

Cataract Surgery with MONOfocal lens

Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed surgery in the world.  Most patients have a fantastic outcome. With the standard monofocal lens, the patient will have to wear glasses for near. Some rare complications of cataract surgery include: Infection in the  eye (endophthalmitis) Bleeding in the  eye (suprachoroidal  hemorrhage) Swelling of the eye (corneal edema) Swelling […]

Monovision

In monovision,  one eye focuses on distance while the other eye focuses on near. Together with both eyes open, the vision is good for near and distance. Some patients feel the vision is not sharp enough for distance or near. But most do not notice the difference. Monovision may be achieved with contact lenses, LASIK surgery […]

Cataract Phaco Surgery Overview

What is a cataract? A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens in your eye. As the cataract develops, light cannot enter the eye easily and your vision gets blurry. Early signs may include frequently changing glasses prescription, difficulty in driving at night or glare in the sunshine. Cataracts are a major cause of […]

Laser for Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus that can have severe implications for vision. Treatment of advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy (also known as proliferative diabetic retinopathy) is with monthly anti-VEGF or retinal laser. Anti-VEGF treatment is repeated every month. Pan Retinal Photocoagulation (PRP) laser acts as permanent anti-VEGF.   What is [...]

Diabetic Retinopathy – Advanced

What is proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR)? Diabetic eye disease is the commonest cause of blindness in the working-age group. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is the advanced form of Diabetic Retinopathy. PDR develops when abnormal or fragile blood vessels grow on the retina. Risk factors for PDR Poorly controlled diabetes Duration of diabetes Smoking Uncontrolled blood [...]

Diabetic Retinopathy-Mild Disease

Most patients with diabetic retinopathy will develop some form of eye changes secondary to diabetes. The eye changes secondary to diabetes are called diabetic retinopathy. The risk factors for developing diabetic retinopathy  are: Poor control of diabetes (measured by HBA1c level) Duration of diabetes (irrespective of control) Smoking High blood pressure Anaemia High cholesterol levels [...]

Vitrectomy for Retinal Detachment

  Retinal detachment requires urgent evaluation and surgery by a retina specialist. Retinal detachment may be repaired by a scleral buckle procedure or a vitrectomy procedure. Vitrectomy surgery may be performed under local anesthesia (most commonly) or general anesthesia. At the end of the surgery most patients are injected with a gas bubble to keep […]

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)

What is Retinitis Pigmentosa? Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited retinal disease, characterized by progressive night blindness. In RP, photoreceptor cells in the retina, that detect light, are damaged. Retina has two types of photoreceptors; rods and cones. Rod photoreceptors are the primary cells that are affected in retinitis pigmentosa. However, eventually, cone photoreceptors [...]

High Myopia (short-sightedness)

What is myopia? Myopia or short-sightedness is an eye condition that causes distant objects to appear blurry while near objects can be seen clearly.  This occurs if the eye is longer than normal or has a cornea that is too steep. Due to this,  light rays focus in front of the retina instead of on […]

Age Related Macular Degeneration

What is age related macular degeneration? Age related macular degeneration(ARMD) is a disease of the central part of the retina called macula. Macula provides a central sharp vision for reading and facial recognition. Therefore, ARMD causes blurred or distorted central vision. The side vision remains unaffected. In the early stages of the disease, there are often […]

Retina Tear

Retinal tears are a serious eye condition that can potentially lead to retinal detachment if left untreated. Fortunately, modern medicine offers effective treatments for retinal tears, one of which is laser treatment. What is a Retinal Tear Retina is the delicate tissue lining the back of the eye that captures light and sends visual signals […]

Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO)

What is Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO)? Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) is a condition that occurs after cataract surgery. It is the most common complication of cataract surgery and can cause blurred or cloudy vision. PCO happens when the thin, clear membrane (capsule) that holds the artificial lens in place becomes cloudy.   What are the […]

Stye and Chalazion

A stye is a lump on eyelid margin formed when debris from blepharitis block the base of the eyelashes. What is the difference between chalazion and stye? Stye and chalazion are eyelid bumps that may occur at any age. A chalazion is noticed as a bump on the eyelid. It is painless. A stye is […]

Posterior Vitreous Detachment

What is a posterior vitreous separation? The back of the eye is filled with a clear jelly called Vitreous. It is normally firmly attached to the lining of the eye (retina). Over time, the vitreous shrinks and pulls away from the retina, which may float in the middle of the eye. This is called a […]

Corona Virus- Information for Patients

You may find it challenging to schedule face-to-face appointments with your eye care provider during the coronavirus pandemic. Here’s how to stay healthy and protect your eyes while hunkering down at home. Patient Information Coronavirus Eye Safety Eye care procedures may be delayed during the pandemic, so eye safety is more important than ever. Download […]

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)

  What is a posterior vitreous detachment? The back of the eye is filled with a clear jelly called Vitreous. It is normally firmly attached to the lining of the eye (retina). Over time, the vitreous shrinks and pulls away from the retina, which may float in the middle of the eye. This is called […]

Epi-Retinal Membrane (ERM)

  What is Epi-Retinal Membrane? Epi-Retinal Membrane (ERM) is a scar tissue that grows on the macula (the central portion of the retina). Macula is responsible for central sharp vision, that helps in reading and recognizing faces. What are the symptoms? An epiretinal membrane will not cause complete blindness. It will generally affect the central […]

Macular Hole

What is a macular hole? Macular hole is a full thickness gap in the centre of the most central part of the eye called fovea. It usually presents with reduced vision or central distortion. Risk factors include old age, trauma, use of Tamoxifen and female gender. There are 4 stages of macular hole. The most […]

Coat’s Disease

What is Coat’s disease? Coat’s disease is an eye disorder characterised by abnormal development of blood vessels in the retina. These blood vessels leak fluid, causing lipid (yellow material) accumulation within the macula (the central most part of the eye). Due to the leaking blood vessels, the fluid accumulates under the retina, causing retinal detachment, […]

Gene Therapy for Inherited Retinal Diseases

  For many inherited retinal diseases, gene therapy has shown promise.       CAN I PARTICIPATE IN CLINICAL TRIALS? If you wish to participate in clinical trials, search here https://clinicaltrials.gov    

How to Prevent Cataract Formation

What are cataracts? Cataracts are a common eye condition that causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred vision, decreased color perception, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts can occur in one or both eyes and can develop slowly over time or quickly after an injury. What causes cataracts? There are […]

The Argus® II Retinal Prosthesis System

In a healthy eye, the photoreceptors (rods and cones) in the retina convert light into tiny electrochemical impulses that are sent through the optic nerveand into the brain, where they are decoded into images. If the photoreceptors no longer function correctly—due to conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa—the first step in this process is disrupted, and the visual system cannot [...]

Blepharitis

What is blepharitis? Blepharitis is a common inflammatory eye disorder, which affects your eyelid margins and leaves debris on your eyelashes. If left untreated, the debris (germs living on the eyelids) can build up and look like dandruff, crusting at the roots of the lashes, which can cause red sore eyes. Why do I have […]

Conjunctivitis

It seems the #conjunctivitis (آشوب چشم) epidemic is back! Adenovirus conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye”, is a viral infection affecting the conjunctiva – the transparent membrane covering the eye and the inside of the eyelids. This informative leaflet aims to provide insights on its symptoms, complications, treatment, and methods of transmission in a question-answer [...]

Why does our eye twitch?

What is eye twitching? Eye twitching is a repetitive, involuntary muscular contraction. A twitch commonly occurs in the upper lid but at times it can occur in lower lid, or both the upper and the lower lid. Twitches are commonly painfree and harmless. However, sometimes they may be caused by certain neurological conditions called Blepharospasm […]