Haldwani’s Base Hospital is seeing a sharp rise in eye-related complaints as temperatures fall, with 80 to 100 patients reaching its eye outpatient department every day. Cataract and weak eyesight are the most frequently reported problems, according to eye specialist Dr Vijay Joshi.
The hospital is recording 4 to 5 new cataract cases daily. Dr Joshi said the number of cataract patients generally increases after the onset of cold weather, with older people affected most often.
Symptoms patients should not ignore
Blurred vision, glare or excessive sensitivity to light, and frequent changes in spectacle power can be early signs of cataract, Dr Joshi said. Many people mistake these symptoms for ordinary age-related weakness and delay medical attention.
Patients often reach the hospital only after the eye has become completely white, according to the specialist. Delaying treatment can make surgery more difficult, he said.
Firecracker injuries added to eye complaints
The hospital also treated 5-6 patients with firecracker-related eye injuries during Diwali. Dr Joshi said some patients had sparks enter their eyes, while others suffered burns to the cornea.
He also linked growing eye problems to prolonged exposure to mobile phones, televisions and computers. Sunlight, dust and pollution can contribute to eye infections, while eye disease may progress more quickly among people with diabetes and high blood pressure, he said.
Children are increasingly being seen with weak eyesight, while cataract remains a common problem among older people, according to Dr Joshi.
Cataract treatment and surgery
Dr Joshi said cataract cannot be cured with medicines or spectacles and that surgery is the only treatment. He said the procedure now takes 10-15 minutes, after which an artificial lens is inserted and the patient can return home the same day.
He advised patients not to delay treatment because of fear. The specialist said cataract surgery becomes more difficult when the condition is allowed to progress.
Conclusion
Base Hospital’s eye department is handling 80 to 100 patients daily, including 4 to 5 new cataract cases. Doctors have also treated 5-6 firecracker injuries after Diwali and are urging patients not to delay cataract treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How many eye patients visit Base Hospital each day?
The eye outpatient department receives 80 to 100 patients daily.
Q. How many new cataract cases are reported each day?
The hospital is seeing 4 to 5 new cataract cases every day.
Q. Which symptoms may indicate cataract?
Blurred vision, glare in bright light and frequent changes in spectacle power may be early symptoms.
Q. How many firecracker-related eye injury patients were treated after Diwali?
Dr Vijay Joshi said 5-6 patients were treated for firecracker-related eye injuries.
Q. Can medicines or spectacles cure cataract?
Dr Joshi said cataract cannot be cured with medicines or spectacles and requires surgery.
