Eye, Ear, Throat Health

Conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the outermost layer of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. As with many of the more common eye inflammations, conjunctivitis usually looks and feels worse than it is, and while the pronounced redness can be quite alarming at first glance, conjunctivitis very rarely causes long-term visual damage.

The experience of having cataracts can be likened to looking at the world through
fogged up glasses – the lenses become all blurred and vision is impaired. That is essentially what cataracts are - the clouding of the eye's natural lenses. The lens is the part of the eye which lies behind the iris and the pupil, and much like a
camera lens, it focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye and adjusts the
eye's focus - allowing us to see both long and short distance.

Bloodshot eyes is a term commonly used to describe red eyes, caused when the small blood vessels on the surface of the eye (sclera) become enlarged and congested with blood. This occurs as a result of insufficient oxygen supply to the cornea or the
tissues covering the eyes. Usually, bloodshot eyes are not really a cause for major
concern, but if eye pain or impaired vision occurs, this may be an indication of a
serious problem.

Blepharitis is a chronic condition that refers to inflammation of the eyelids, and typically affects the margins of the eyelids. This is often a recurring condition associated with bacterial infections or skin disorders such as dandruff or acne rosacea. Blepharitis is not serious and symptoms may be alleviated easily. However, symptoms can cause much discomfort and it is therefore imperative that eye hygiene becomes a daily routine.

Bitot’s Spots are distinct white patches that appear on the conjunctiva – the
membrane that covers most of the visible part of the eye. Bitot’s spots can expand and develop into a condition called xerophthalmia. Xerophthalmia is a major cause of blindness in children in Africa and Latin
America, and usually occurs between the ages of 3-5 years old. It is generally
associated with malnutrition and Vitamin A deficiency.

There is no cure for macular degeneration but some treatments may help to improve vision or delay the progression of symptoms of macular degeneration. Treatment does depend on the stage of the disease – whether macular degeneration is in the early stage, dry form or more advanced wet form.

A sore throat is usually due to an infection in the throat area. Sore throat causes are mostly related to cases of pharyngitis or tonsillitis. Aside from pain in the throat area, the sore throat symptoms can also include a reddish appearance or swelling in the throat, ear pain, difficulty swallowing, and a high fever.

Information on diagnosing, symptoms, causes and various treatment methods for macular degeneration.