January 3, 2006	Tuesday	Zilhaj 2, 1426

KARACHI, Jan 2: Karachiites experiencing viral eye infections, currently on the surge, have been advised not to resort to self-medication as the consequences could be complicated.

Prof Idrees Adhi of Ophthalmology Department, Civil Hospital Karachi, mentioned that the eye infection registered each year during winters could not be prevented and there was no specific treatment for it. “Infected persons must know that the condition is self-limiting and they merely need to restrict themselves to their homes for four to five days without causing any strain to eye,” Prof Adhi said maintaining that this is good enough for complete recovery.

Viral eye infections are largely self-limiting and patients must not use any eye drops or medication, particularly home-based remedy of rose water. All these generally containing steroid could cause severe complications.

The surgeon, however, made it clear that people inflicted with viral eye infection if register any blurredness in their vision along with redness must immediately see a qualified eye specialist.

“Hazy or obscure vision reflects involvement of cornea, which must be clean and bright helping the individual to have a clear sight,” he said.

Elaborating his stance, the senior ophthalmologist said often due to use of medicines, available in the market, cornea could be affected with certain growth which if not attended immediately could cause loss of vision.

Prof Idrees Adhi also clarified that polluted water was not the cause for the spread of viral eye infection. However, as part of necessary precautions, infected persons must take due care of personal hygiene, must avoid close contact and should not share towels or handkerchiefs with others. He particularly advised parents not to send their kids inflicted with eye infection to schools. —APP