Noted ophthalmologist and surgical chief of the eponymous Dr Cyres K. Mehta’s (pictured) International Eye Centre "which attracts people from more than 25 countries” has authored The Sight Guide: An Ophthalmologist’s Perspective on Eye Diseases in which he has shared his knowledge of the eye and the disorders/diseases that affect it.
This compilation of eye diseases and the modern technologies used to treat and cure them provides a great deal of useful information in a compact and well segmented format. In the Foreword Mehta’s former teacher Prof I. Howard Fine, MD, past president of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and inventor of clear corneal phaco cataract surgery, states the book will help people "choose appropriate and timely eye examinations and eye care” and "if used appropriately will have a dramatic impact on reducing visual dysfunction and disabilities.”
Covered in several chapters are understanding of cataract and the advances in its surgical treatment as well as vision after cataract removal; how diabetes affects vision; age-related macular degeneration; glaucoma; retinal detachment; computer vision syndrome; eye injuries from sports; laser vision correction; suitable diet for healthy eyes; and a section on the advanced machines used in ophthalmology. The first eye examination should be done when a child is three months old, writes Mehta, followed by regular eye checks by a professional ophthalmologist to maintain eye health throughout one’s life.
Though age related macular degeneration (ARMD) has become a global health issue, many small communities like the Parsis and Jews are "overly affected by (it)… due to their small genetic pool” as well as longevity, notes Mehta. He lists methods of testing and treatment and offers suggestions on how to prevent the condition. Glaucoma, "the silent thief of sight,” can cause loss of vision and blindness if not managed adequately either through eye-drops or by surgical intervention. Signs, symptoms and treatment for retinal detachment are dealt with.
Of particular interest in today’s world is the issue of computer vision syndrome which frequently affects those who spend more than three or four hours a day at the computer, Ipad or other electronic devices. Red, itchy, tired eyes, head and neck aches, tightness causing one to shut one’s eyes are common symptoms. The doctor says "simple steps can be put in place to ensure that the eye muscles are adequately relaxed” to ease the condition.
Details of pediatric eye diseases like childhood cataracts, glaucoma, squint, lazy eye and eye allergies will prove a boon to anxious parents as early diagnosis and management "can often help spare the child from irreversible vision loss.”
Antioxidants, found naturally in many of the foods we consume, are among the nutritional requirements for healthy eyes. Eating red and yellow vegetables and fruit may reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration, while leafy green vegetables contain lutein and zeaxanthin that protect the eyes from potential light damage. Other beneficial food sources include eggs, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables like carrot, pumpkin and sweet potato.
The book has a glossary, several educative illustrations as well as laudatory photographs but, above all, nuggets of information gleaned after decades of experience in the field.
The 233-page book, The Sight Guide published in 2023 by i-Read Publications, is priced at Rs 450 and is available at support@i-readpublications.com (for bulk or customized orders contact +91 9819133380 or support@librarywala.com).
SHERENE VAKIL