Why Early Diagnosis is Crucial in Eye Care: Insights from HCG Ophthalmology Experts

Overview

Eyes are popularly known as the “windows to the soul.” However, what many don’t know is that they also provide a glimpse into one’s general health. 

Several systemic diseases, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and some neurological conditions, present with ocular manifestations. Unfortunately, most Indians pay little attention to eye health and seek medical help only when eye problems become serious.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), nearly 2.2 billion people globally live with vision impairment, and at least half of these cases could have been prevented or treated with timely diagnosis.

Reports suggest that about 34 million people in India live with blindness and other forms of visual impairment. Additionally, it has been found that in about 85% of cases, blindness can be prevented.

This is when the experience of an eye treatment doctor and timely diagnostic examinations become crucial. Early detection goes a long way in controlling several major illnesses such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts.

At HCG Hospitals, a leading multispeciality hospital in Ahmedabad, we offer comprehensive eye care. If you are looking for the best ophthalmologist in Ahmedabad, visit HCG Hospitals today.

Role of Regular Eye Checkups

The majority of people think that eye examinations are only for testing how well one can see or changing glasses. However, in truth, a routine eye checkup is about much more than just improving vision.

An experienced ophthalmologist conducts comprehensive tests to assess eye pressure, retinal health, optic nerve function, and corneal condition. These tests are useful, as they assist in detecting illnesses early enough to prevent total blindness.

In India, many people delay visiting an eye treatment doctor until symptoms like blurred vision, eye pain, or difficulty focusing appear. Nonetheless, certain severe eye diseases like glaucoma and macular degeneration may advance silently in the early phases. By the time symptoms show, substantial damage may already have occurred.

Early Diagnosis Is Crucial in Eye Care

Early detection in eye care is not just about treating existing conditions; it’s about preventing future vision loss.

• Glaucoma: The “silent thief of sight,” often develops without symptoms. Early detection and timely treatment can prevent permanent vision loss.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: With 77 million diabetic patients in India (IDF Diabetes Atlas 2023), diabetic retinopathy is a major cause of preventable blindness. If detected early, interventions such as laser treatment or injections can save vision.
• Cataracts: Found in nearly 74% of Indians above 60 years of age. Though surgery is highly successful, early detection helps maintain a better quality of life.
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Increasingly common among the elderly, AMD impacts central vision. Early diagnosis allows treatments to slow progression.
• Eye Cancer and Infections: Though rare, early detection improves survival rates and reduces complications.
  

Clearly, timely visits to an eye care specialist can make the difference between lifelong vision and preventable blindness.

Early Detection Techniques Available at HCG Hospitals

At HCG Hospitals, ophthalmologists rely on clinical expertise supported by essential diagnostic tools to ensure precise evaluation:

• Comprehensive Eye Examination: Includes visual acuity testing, slit-lamp examination, and dilated fundus evaluation.
• Schiotz Tonometer: Used to measure intraocular pressure for detecting glaucoma.
• Visual Field Testing (Automated Perimetry): Available with the consulting ophthalmologist at her South Bopal clinic.
  

Note: Advanced imaging techniques such as OCT, fundus photography, and fluorescein angiography are not currently available in-house. In select cases, patients may be referred to specialized clinics for these investigations.

This approach ensures patients receive the right diagnosis and guidance, with multidisciplinary support where required.

How Often Should You Schedule an Eye Exam?

The frequency of eye exams depends on age, health condition, and risk factors. At HCG, we follow a structured guideline:

• At Birth (if premature): To rule out retinopathy of prematurity.
  
  
• Before 4 years of age: Especially important if there is a squint or a family history of myopia.
  
  
• Children with refractive error: Every 9 months, many schools now encourage compulsory annual eye check-ups.
  
  
• Young Adults (20–25 years): At least once during this period.
  
  
• Near 40 years: To screen for glaucoma and refraction changes.
  
  
• After 40 years: Every 2 years.
  
  
• After 55 years: Annually, the risk of cataracts, AMD, and glaucoma increases with age.
  
  
• High-Risk Patients (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, family history of glaucoma): Examination at the time of diagnosis, followed by annual check-ups. If retinopathy changes are detected, every 6 months as advised by the doctor.
  
  
• Senior Citizens: Annual eye exams are strongly recommended.

Conclusion

Regular eye checkups are important for everyone, as they protect vision and help in identifying systemic diseases early. The significance of early detection cannot be overstated, especially with the rising prevalence of diabetes and lifestyle-related conditions in India.

Do not wait for symptoms like eye ache, unclear vision, or sudden loss of sight. Consult an ophthalmologist at HCG Hospitals, one of the leading multispeciality hospitals in Ahmedabad, for timely attention and care.