Safe Songkran Celebration - Protecting Your Eyes from Infections

Sudden Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Symptoms and Risk Factors The term "sudden angle-closure glaucoma" itself conveys the abrupt onset of symptoms, including sudden eye redness, intense eye pain, and rapid vision impairment. This condition manifests suddenly, and understanding its underlying mechanisms is crucial.   Within the human eye, a delicate balance exists between clear and dense aqueous humor components, exerting pressure on the eye. Typically, this intraocular pressure measures between 10-20 millimeters of mercury. Aqueous humor flows in and out of the eye, maintaining a harmonious equilibrium with blood circulation. In cases of sudden angle-closure glaucoma, an anomalous shift disrupts this balance, leading to reduced outflow compared to inflow. This sudden disruption results in a rapid surge in intraocular pressure, potentially reaching levels as high as 50-60 millimeters of mercury, causing immediate and severe eye and head pain. The increased pressure induces haziness in the normally clear cornea, leading to sudden blurred vision.   This condition primarily affects individuals with an anatomically predisposed eye structure. Externally, their eyes may appear normal, but specific factors create internal abnormalities. For example, certain medications can contribute to this condition, and it is more prevalent in elderly women. As women age, changes in eye dimensions narrow the angle between the iris and cornea.   Symptoms In some cases, there are warning signs that precede the onset of sudden angle-closure glaucoma. These warning signs may include sporadic eye pain during eye strain, temporary evening eye haziness, or occasional halos around lights. However, these symptoms are intermittent, and rest often alleviates them. When these symptoms occur, especially in older individuals, particularly women, seeking immediate consultation with an eye specialist is essential. If the specialist identifies these symptoms alongside an internal eye structure anomaly, the use of laser therapy is highly effective in preventing this condition.   Risk Factors for Sudden Angle-Closure Glaucoma While the precise cause of sudden intraocular pressure increase may not always be clear, several factors heighten the risk of sudden angle-closure glaucoma:   Ethnic Background: Some ethnicities, such as Asians, have a higher susceptibility compared to Europeans. Gender: Women are more affected by this condition than men. Age: The risk escalates with age, particularly in individuals aged 60 and older. Genetics: A family history of this disease suggests a genetic predisposition. Eye Conditions: In most cases, sudden angle-closure glaucoma occurs abruptly without prior eye conditions. However, it can be linked to pre-existing eye conditions, such as mature cataracts that remain untreated or traumatic eye injuries causing lens displacement.   In summary, the primary symptoms of sudden angle-closure glaucoma encompass eye redness, severe eye pain, and blurred vision. These symptoms are considered medical emergencies, necessitating immediate attention. With a prompt diagnosis and treatment, patients can be discharged without hospitalization. Hence, individuals with risk factors should undergo regular eye check-ups, ideally on an annual basis.

Allergic Conjunctivitis: Understanding Inflammation Triggered by Allergies Allergic conjunctivitis can be a result of allergies or, in some instances, infections. The reason allergies often target the eyes is because they have a rich network of blood vessels that react to allergens. Your eyes are in direct contact with the external environment.   When you encounter allergens like pollen, dust, pet dander, medications, or cigarette smoke, these substances dissolve in your tears and interact with the conjunctiva. This conjunctiva generates antibodies known as IgE (Immunoglobulin E). When allergens bind to these antibodies, it sets off an allergic response. This leads to itching, redness, and watery eyes. Your skin around the eyes typically remains unaffected, and your vision remains clear. It's advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses during this time, as they could raise the risk of bacterial infections.   Types of allergic conjunctivitis:   Conjunctivitis: This is the most prevalent form of allergic conjunctivitis and is often accompanied by symptoms like a runny nose. Key indicators include itchy, watery eyes, usually affecting both eyes, and the severity may fluctuate with the seasons. Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis: This type is a year-round allergic response and is less common. The symptoms are typically milder compared to the first type. Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis: This form is often linked with skin issues such as eczema around the eyes and face. Symptoms encompass redness, itching, and excessive tearing. The hallmark sign is intense eye itching. In the case of an infection, you might experience pain and a mucous or pus-like discharge. Inflammatory changes may affect the conjunctiva and cornea.   Preventing allergic conjunctivitis: To ward off allergic conjunctivitis, it's vital to minimize your exposure to allergens. This includes avoiding places with blooming flowers, dusty environments, cigarette smoke, and pets.   Self-care for allergic conjunctivitis: If you're experiencing eye irritation and suspect allergies, take immediate steps to avoid allergens. You can use artificial tears to reduce swelling and flush out allergens. Applying a cold compress can help diminish swelling. Over-the-counter antihistamines can offer relief. If self-care doesn't alleviate your symptoms, it's wise to seek advice from a healthcare professional who may prescribe allergy eye drops.   Avoiding allergens: In certain cases, rinsing your eyes with a saline solution might be necessary. Cold compresses can help reduce swelling. You may be prescribed eye drops to constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation. In severe cases, steroid eye drops are employed.