EYE CARE: Over-the-counter access to steroid eye drops is causing all sorts of problems to the nation’s eye health. Several viral infections of the cornea are self-limiting and even go unnoticed if not mistreated with the habitual use of steroid eye drops. Other complications that arise from the misuse of steroids, among many others, are glaucoma and cataract. This is the season for viral keratitis, and physicians are witnessing multiple cases as part of their clinical practice. The most misused steroid eye drops, in my experience, is Betnesol. Strict implementation of regulations is required to save people from long-term visual impairment and blindness from the misuse of steroids.

Dr Ghazi Khan Marri
Matiari

SHORTCUTS: We all are aware of the chaotic traffic conditions in mega cities, like Karachi and Lahore. Pedestrian bridges are installed on every important road for the safety of pedestrians. Nevertheless, many people put their life in danger and choose to cross the main road, ignoring the bridges overhead. Due to heavy traffic, especially during rush hours, it becomes difficult to keep an eye on the fast-moving and chaotic traffic, and cross the road safely. Therefore, accidents take place. Citizens should avoid shortcuts and use pedestrian bridges for their own safety.

Komal Khalid Khuhawar
Karachi

A SANE VOICE: This is with reference to the editorial “Aiyar’s observation” (28th August), which correctly pointed out that despite officially tense relations between Pakistan and India, there are some saner voices in India, like Mani Shankar Aiyar, who believe that Pakistanis are not enemies, and that issues can be resolved between the two countries by sitting across the table. Mr Aiyar, in his speeches and writings, always promotes the idea of having better relations with Pakistan. His books should be made available in Pakistan where he had served as a diplomat as well.

Dr Mehtab Ali Shah
Jamshoro

Published in Dawn, September 3rd, 2023