Eye Care Awareness Month, September 2012

Many people pay little attention to their eyesight and the health of their eyes. This is despite the fact that most of us are very reliant on our vision to go about our daily lives. We use our vision to help us to get to work every day or to perform such basic tasks as making a cup of tea or coffee. Our eyes and our vision are an essential part of our lives and we need to take proper care of them.

As part of the Government Employees Medical Scheme's (GEMS) on-going effort to educate our members and future members on a range of healthcare topics, this article explores the subject of eye care this National Eye Care Awareness Month.

What is blindness?
Blindness or partial blindness is when an individual is unable to see or has limited vision. Blindness affects millions of people in the world today and many of them live active and fulfilling lives. However, living with blindness can be extremely challenging and it therefore makes sense to do everything possible to protect your eyes and your eyesight. The South African National Council for the Blind says that as much as 80% of blindness is avoidable.

Some eye conditions such as pinkeye are generally not serious, but others like glaucoma may go on to cause complete blindness if left untreated. The good news is that most eye conditions can be successfully treated, particularly if they are detected early. This is why it is important to be aware of how to take care of your eyes and to visit an optometrist or doctor regularly from a young age.

Common eye conditions
There are many different types of eye conditions. The following are some of the more common eye problems to look out for, as well as their symptoms:

Pinkeye
Pinkeye is a fairly common condition that causes inflammation and redness of the membranes of the whites of the eye and the inner part of the eyelid. Pinkeye, or conjunctivitis as it is also sometimes known, may be caused by a bacteria or virus and can sometimes be linked to allergies or toxins. Some forms of the condition are highly contagious and are easily passed on from person to person. If you have pinkeye you should avoid touching your eyes with your hands and wash your hands regularly. Pinkeye is not a serious condition and lasts from between three and ten days. Bacterial pinkeye can be treated with antibiotics.

Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye condition arising from pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve. The condition can cause vision loss and eventually blindness, particularly if it is not treated. Glaucoma can be prevented from getting worse if it is treated early. It can be treated with the use of eye drops and in certain cases with laser and surgical procedures.

Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, which results in blurred or dull vision. It can be caused by a number of factors including aging, trauma to the eye and diabetes. Exposure to the UV rays of the sun can also contribute to cataract development. The condition tends to cause a slow deterioration in sight. Individuals with cataracts may improve their vision with the assistance of specially prescribed glasses. Surgery may eventually become necessary. This involves replacing the eye lens with an artificial lens.  According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 40% of blindness is attributable to cataracts globally.

Corneal ulcer
Corneal ulcers are usually caused by infections, which can be bacterial, fungal or viral. Red eyes, swollen eyelids, blurry vision, pain, a white or grey spot on the eye and feeling like there is something in the eye may all be signs of a corneal ulcer. This is a very uncomfortable condition and it may be quite serious. Anyone who has a corneal ulcer should see an ophthalmologist immediately. Treatment may include antibiotics and eye drops, and in certain instances surgery may be required.

The importance of regular check-ups
The above are just a few of the possible eye conditions that individuals sometimes develop. This is why it is important to have your eyes regularly checked by an optometrist and to visit your doctor if you have any problems with your eyes. This way any eye conditions or illnesses can be detected and dealt with early on. Your medical practitioner may refer you to an ophthalmologist (eye specialist) if you need specialist treatment.

Maintaining good eye health
There are a number of steps you yourself can take to protect you and your family's eyes, which may help you to avoid eye infections or other conditions.

Protect your eyes from foreign objects such as dust or other particles. Scratches caused to the eye by foreign objects can lead to infection or damage the eye. It is therefore important that that you wear protective eye-wear if you are working with tools or equipment that may cause chips or shards to fly into the eyes.

Be sure to wear proper sunglasses. Inadequately made sunglasses will not protect your eyes from the rays of the sun, which can damage your eyes. You should therefore be sure to wear sunglasses that will provide proper protection for your eyes. 

Take a ten minute break every hour when using a computer. This will minimise eye strain and the development of eye-focusing problems.

Have your children's vision tested to ensure they are able to see clearly. A child that is not able to see properly may start having problems learning at school because they may not be able to see the teacher and blackboard.

Look after your eyes
Vision is a great gift and most of us find it challenging to live our daily lives without it. Taking care of our eyes is an important part of looking after yourself, so it is wise to pay it the attention it deserves.

For any GEMS member queries please phone the GEMS call centre on 0860 00 4367 or visit our website at www.gems.gov.za. GEMS will assist you in every way possible to ensure your family's health and wellbeing.

Sources:
1. The South African National Council for the Blind, www.sancb.org.za

2. Eyesite, www.eyesite.co.za

3. The Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.com