Irritated eyes can have many underlying causes, but frequently simple treatments can bring fast relief.
Dry eyes are a common but under-recognised problem. Not only can it cause gritty tired sore eyes, it can also affect the quality of vision. Many patients find it harder it to read or use a computer for an extended period of time. It occurs when the eyes do not make enough tears or they evaporate too quickly. A multifaceted approach is usually required to deal with the problem including drops, lid hygiene, supplements and specialist medication.
Bell’s Palsy occurs when the muscles on one side of the face become weak or paralysed. Most of the time, symptoms are temporary but ophthalmology assessment is important to rule out underlying problems as well as to prevent and manage eye problems. Failure of lid closure can leave the cornea open to abrasions and infections. This can result in permanent visual loss if untreated, watery eyes, lid malposition, facial asymmetry etc.
This involves sagging and outward turning lids and lashes. It can cause watery irritated eyes and result in damage to the front of the eye from exposure.
Entropion: This involves in-turned lashes and eyelid. It should be treated before the eyelashes rub on the front of the eye, causing damage from infection and scarring. Repair is a simple day case procedure.
Heavy baggy eyelids can be treated by a blepharoplasty (eye lift). The aim is a subtle result – you should look refreshed as if back from holiday. Incisions are made in the natural skin folds.
Retinal detachment surgery can be performed under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic. Under local anaesthetic you will be awake but you will not feel any discomfort as the eye will be numbed with an injection. You will not see the operation and the other eye will be covered. If a general anaesthetic is chosen then you will be fully asleep. The decision as to which type of anaesthesia is most suitable will be made following a discussion between you and your surgeon.
If you have been given any posturing instructions then these should be followed. You can bath or shower, but avoid splashing water near the eye. Generally you may do anything with which you are comfortable. Most people choose not to drive over the first few weeks. You must not fly until the gas bubble has gone and you must inform the anaesthetist if you require a general anaesthetic for any operation while there is gas in your eye.
Most retinal tears are small and can be treated using laser or cryotherapy (freezing procedure). This seals the tear and reduces the risk of a retinal detachment.
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