NEBH Certificate of Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre

NEBH Certificate of Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre

Retinopathy Of Prematurity

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What Is Retinopathy Of Prematurity?

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a condition affecting the eyes of premature infants, particularly those born before 31 weeks of gestation or with very low birth weights. ROP occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow and spread in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, due to disrupted development. This abnormal growth can lead to retinal detachment and potential vision loss if left untreated.

The condition is primarily linked to premature birth and the use of oxygen therapy, which can influence blood vessel development in the retina. Early stages of ROP may not show clear symptoms, making regular eye screenings crucial for early detection. Treatment options include laser therapy to stop abnormal blood vessel growth, cryotherapy to freeze abnormal areas, and anti-VEGF medications to inhibit vessel growth. Timely intervention is essential to prevent severe outcomes and preserve vision.

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Causes and Risk Factors of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

Causes:
  1. Prematurity: The primary cause of ROP is the premature birth of infants. Babies born before 31 weeks of gestation are at higher risk because their retinal blood vessels are not fully developed.
  2. Disrupted Blood Vessel Development: In premature infants, the normal process of retinal blood vessel growth can be interrupted, leading to abnormal vessel formation.
Risk Factors:
  1. Low Birth Weight: Infants weighing less than 2.75 pounds (1250 grams) at birth are more susceptible to ROP.
  2. Oxygen Therapy: High levels of oxygen used to support breathing in premature infants can influence blood vessel growth in the retina.
  3. Medical Complications: Conditions related to prematurity, such as respiratory distress syndrome or sepsis, can increase the risk.
  4. Multiple Births: Twins or higher-order multiples are at greater risk due to the increased likelihood of being born prematurely.
  5. Infections and Illnesses: Any infections or illnesses that affect the infant’s health can contribute to the development of ROP.
  6. Genetic Factors: Although less common, genetic predispositions may also play a role in the likelihood of developing ROP.

Symptoms of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) often develops without obvious symptoms, especially in its early stages, making regular eye screenings crucial for premature infants. However, as the condition progresses, some signs may become noticeable:

  1. Vision Changes: Although ROP itself might not present immediate symptoms, affected infants may show signs of poor vision development as they grow. Parents might notice that their baby is not tracking objects or responding to visual stimuli as expected.
  2. Abnormal Eye Movements: Severe cases of ROP can cause abnormal eye movements, such as jerky or uncontrolled eye movements (nystagmus).
  3. Retinal Detachment: In advanced stages, ROP can lead to retinal detachment, which might manifest as sudden changes in vision or the presence of a white or cloudy appearance in the pupil.
  4. Strabismus: Infants with ROP may develop strabismus, or crossed eyes, where the eyes do not align properly.
  5. Eye Discomfort: Although less common, some infants may show signs of discomfort or irritation in the eyes.

Because early ROP may not present with obvious symptoms, it is essential for premature infants to undergo regular eye examinations to detect any changes early and initiate appropriate treatment.

 

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy often develops gradually, and early stages may not present noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you may experience:

    1. Blurred Vision
      • Vision may become fuzzy or out of focus.
    2. Floaters
      • Dark spots, strings, or specks that move across your vision.
    3. Flashes of Light
      • Sudden bursts of light or flashes in your field of vision.
    4. Difficulty Seeing at Night
      • Trouble seeing clearly in low-light conditions.
    5. Dark or Empty Areas in Vision
      • Areas in your vision may appear dark or blank, affecting your ability to see.
    6. Sudden Vision Loss
      • In severe cases, there may be a sudden loss of vision or a significant decrease in vision clarity.

How to Prevent retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

Preventing Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) involves a comprehensive approach to managing the health of premature infants and minimizing risk factors. It starts with optimal prenatal care to reduce the likelihood of preterm birth. For infants born prematurely, careful management in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is crucial, including regulated oxygen therapy to avoid excessive exposure that can disrupt normal retinal blood vessel development. Regular eye screenings are essential for early detection; premature infants, especially those born before 31 weeks of gestation or with very low birth weight, should undergo timely and routine eye exams to monitor for signs of ROP. Nutritional support and management of any associated health conditions further support overall development and reduce ROP risk. Additionally, educating parents about the importance of follow-up care and recognizing potential vision issues is vital. By adhering to these preventive strategies, the risk of developing ROP can be significantly reduced, and early intervention can improve outcomes for affected infants.

 

Why Choose Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre?

Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre in Ambala is a leading healthcare facility renowned for providing exceptional eye and ENT treatments. The center is home to two highly skilled specialists: Dr. Rishi Gautam Aggarwal, a Senior ENT Specialist and Otolaryngologist with over 16 years of experience, and Dr. Jaspreet Aggarwal, an Eye Specialist and Ophthalmologist with 16+ years of expertise. Together, they offer comprehensive care for a wide range of conditions.

Patients trust Sri Onkar for its state-of-the-art medical technology and advanced procedures. The clinic specializes in cutting-edge treatments such as Blade-Free LASIK for vision correction, modern cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and minimally invasive ENT procedures. Their commitment to providing personalized care ensures the best outcomes, while maintaining affordable treatment options.

The center’s patient-focused approach, combined with the experience and expertise of its doctors, ensures high-quality care in a comfortable and professional environment. Whether it’s eye care or ENT treatment, Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre stands out as the top choice for patients seeking reliable and effective healthcare solutions in Ambala.

 

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