Other Eye Conditions

Our expert team of surgeons can treat an extremely wide range of eye conditions. Some of the more uncommon conditions we treat include:

* Blepharospasm

* Dry Eye Syndrome

* Pterygium

Blepharospasm

Blepharospasm is an involuntary contraction or twitching of one of the muscles that controls the eyelids, causing them to close and thus obstruct vision. This condition can occur spontaneously for no specific reason; however it can also be the body’s natural reaction to stress, tiredness or lengthy exposure to bright light. If the condition progresses, eyelid spasms become stronger and occur more frequently, sometimes causing the eyelid to remain closed for lengthy periods of time. Performing everyday tasks can then become difficult as vision becomes more obstructed.

Sometimes, this condition can occur spontaneously for no specific reason, however it can also occur in response to stress, tiredness or lengthy exposure to bright light. If the condition progresses, eyelid spasms become stronger and occur more frequently, sometimes causing the eyelid to remain closed for lengthy periods of time. Performing everyday tasks can then become difficult as vision becomes more obstructed.

The Optegra Treatment:

Blepharospasm is normally treated by medication, a course of injections or in severe cases, by surgery. Some types of medication can actually cause Blepharospasm, and a change of treatment can relieve or completely remove the symptoms.

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry Eye Syndrome usually results from a problem with the tear film that lubricates the eyes. This can be caused by a number of factors, including air conditioning, cigarette smoke, some medications, contact lenses, the menopause, and the natural ageing process. Diabetics can also be at increased risk of this condition.

Mild or early-stage Dry Eye Syndrome typically causes itching, burning, light sensitivity or blurred vision that improves with blinking, but if left untreated, it can lead to more serious damage to the eye.

The Optegra Treatment:

Dry eyes are often treated with artificial tears (eye drops) to alleviate the dry, scratchy feeling in the eyes, or occasionally with temporary or permanent ‘plugs’ that reduce the speed at which tears drain from the eyes.

Pterygium

A pterygium is a raised piece of tissue which grows over the surface of the cornea, and is particularly common among people who live in hot climates or spend a lot of time in the sun. Common symptoms of this condition include irritation, redness, and occasionally visual distortion.

The Optegra Treatment:

The symptoms of pterygium can be relieved through decongestant eye drops and artificial tear drops. As pterygiums are most commonly caused by exposure to sunlight, wearing protective sunglasses can also help to reduce irritation. In cases where the pterygium begins to enter the central cornea, it can be removed with a safe, swift surgical procedure.