Cataracts
By: Saivishnu Tulugu
From viewing the mundane sights of our everyday lives to the serenities of nature, the human eye holds an important role in the identification of our surroundings and the formation of spatial relations. However many people around the world are unable of performing this fundamental physiological function due to an ophthalmologic condition known as cataracts. This article will evaluate the onset of this disease, treatment options, and ramifications in developing countries.
Cataracts is a progressive eye disorder associated with cloudiness in the eye that impairs an affected individual’s ability to see. Causes of the disease include trauma, genetic predispositions, and comorbidities, however, the most common cause of cataracts is aging as proteins in the eye lens naturally degrade over time. This, in turn, prevents the eyes from focusing on an image and prevents an individual from seeing. Environmental factors such as radiation can also denature protective enzymes in the eye such as glutathione peroxidase and oxidize thiol groups which result in protein aggregation (Messina-Baas & Cuevas-Covarrubias). Furthermore, comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension may exaggerate the rate of protein degradation and increase an individual’s risk of developing a cataract.
The most effective treatment for cataracts is performing a surgery known as phacoemulsification (Allen & Vasavada). This surgical procedure uses an ultrasonic wave to emulsify the cataract lens and correct vision impediments. Extracapsular cataract extraction is another potential treatment option that manually removes the blockage; this method is often used in developing countries with limited infrastructure (Heruye et. al).
Overall cataracts are an eye disorder that can be readily treated in developed countries. However, in developing countries with limited medical access, the disease is untreatable naturally and can have a damaging effect both mentally and physically for patients and their families (Shiels & Hejtmancik). Thus researchers are currently looking for novel, inexpensive treatments that can be used to restore the vision of over 20 million individuals worldwide.
Ophthalmological impacts of a Global Pandemic
By: Prajna D
The COVID-19 pandemic has put the majority of the world in lockdown. With this lockdown, many people have been forced to conduct their daily activities digitally. Schooling, work, and other events have been taking place through video conferences and group chats ever since the lockdown started. This new extreme exposure to screens has surely impacted the eyes, and it may cause problems in the future if not managed effectively.
It has been shown that it is not comfortable for eyes to be looking at small print for long periods of time. According to Barbara L. Horn, O.D., “‘Our eyes were not designed to use computers especially for long periods of time, and as a result, many people who spend long hours reading or working on a computer experience eye discomfort and vision problems’” (Forster, 2020). Unfortunately, this may be an unavoidable situation for those working at home or attending online classes. The best way to prevent eye discomfort would be to limit screen time, which may not always be doable but definitely worth the try. Additionally, the 20-20-20 rule is a method where a 20 minute break is taken from screen time and a random object 20 feet away is stared at for 20 seconds. This technique may help relax the eye muscles and relieve discomfort.
Even though quarantine has led to excessive use of screens, it is important to notice that this may be taking a toll on eye health. Due to this, try taking frequent breaks and limiting screen time as much as possible. Eye care is crucial at this time to prevent long lasting eye damage. Investing in blue light glasses and sectioning time off of screens may be the best way to prevent permanent eye damage and avoiding a visit to the ophthalmologist.
Work Cited:
Cataracts:
Allen, D., & Vasavada, A. (2006). Cataract and surgery for cataract. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 333(7559), 128–132. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.333.7559.128
Heruye, S. H., Maffofou Nkenyi, L. N., Singh, N. U., Yalzadeh, D., Ngele, K. K., Njie-Mbye, Y. F., Ohia, S. E., & Opere, C. A. (2020). Current Trends in the Pharmacotherapy of Cataracts. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), 13(1), 15. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph13010015
Messina-Baas, O., & Cuevas-Covarrubias, S. A. (2017). Inherited Congenital Cataract: A Guide to Suspect the Genetic Etiology in the Cataract Genesis. Molecular syndromology, 8(2), 58–78. https://doi.org/10.1159/000455752
Shiels, A., & Hejtmancik, J. F. (2019). Biology of Inherited Cataracts and Opportunities for Treatment. Annual review of vision science, 5, 123–149. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-vision-091517-034346
Ophthalmological impacts of a Global Pandemic
Forster, V. (2020, June 1). Are Your Eyes Hurting During The Coronavirus Pandemic? You May Have “Computer Vision Syndrome.” Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/victoriaforster/2020/06/01/are-your-eyes-hurting-during-the–coronavirus-pandemic-you-may-have-computer-vision-syndrome/?sh=65bea9746cf9
Schleicher, A. (2020, May 4). Eye health concerns exacerbated as COVID-19-induced quarantine increases screen time. Retrieved from https://www.nutritioninsight.com/news/eye-health-concerns-exacerbated-as-covid-19-induced-quarantine-increases-screen-time.html
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