[vc_row iw_layout=”wide-bg”][vc_column][vc_row_inner equal_height=”yes” gap=”35″][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_wp_custommenu nav_menu=”41″ title=”ENFERMEDADES OCULARES” el_class=”enfermedades_oculares”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”3/4″][inwave_heading preview_style_1=”” title=”{SUPERFICIE OCULAR: CONJUNTIVA Y CORNEA}”][vc_column_text]
The cornea is the outer layer of the eye; it is transparent, curvilinear, and acts as the first lens that light encounters when it enters our eyeball.
For the cornea to function correctly, it must remain transparent and have an adequate curvature to maintain good optical refraction properties.
The cornea serves as a defensive barrier against trauma and infection, protecting the eye from germs and other external risk factors. It is affected by many acquired or congenital diseases.
Therefore, the cornea helps to protect primarily the eye socket, the eyelid, tears and the sclera (the white part of the eye).
In addition to the transparency of the cornea, each person's visual capacity depends on the cornea, which is why we can consider the cornea the first lens of our eyes' optical system, since a deformity or lack of transparency will cause a poor image on the retina.
Therefore, one of its main functions is to focus images, adapting to near and far vision.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][inwave_heading preview_style_1=”” title=”{Causas de daños en la córnea}” sub_title=”Los más frecuentes son:” align=”center”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_row_inner gap=”35″][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][inwave_item_info style=”style1_4″ preview_style4=”” title=”{Arañazos en la córnea}” description=”Resultado de una alteración o pérdida de células en la capa externa de la córnea.” icon_size=”100″ align=”center” img=”3140″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][inwave_item_info style=”style1_4″ preview_style4=”” title=”{Lesión Química}” description=”Resultado por químico nocivo que entra en contacto con el ojo.” icon_size=”100″ align=”center” img=”3141″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][inwave_item_info style=”style1_4″ preview_style4=”” title=”{Abuso lente de contacto}” description=”Causado por el mal uso de las lentes de contacto, o resultado de no cambiarlo despues de 6 meses.” icon_size=”100″ align=”center” img=”3142″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner gap=”35″][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][inwave_item_info style=”style1_4″ preview_style4=”” title=”{Objetos Extraños}” description=”Contacto en el ojo de agentes extraños: sensación de cuerpo extraño, dolor, visión borrosa.” icon_size=”100″ align=”center” img=”3143″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][inwave_item_info style=”style1_4″ preview_style4=”” title=”{Exceso de Luz}” description=”Exceso de rayos ultravioleta en el ojo, Luz directa del sol, Luz artificial, destellos de luz.” icon_size=”100″ align=”center” img=”3144″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][inwave_item_info style=”style1_4″ preview_style4=”” title=”{Infecciones}” description=”Infecciones causadas por hongos, virus o bacterias.” icon_size=”100″ align=”center” img=”3145″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][inwave_heading preview_style_1=”” title=”{Enfermedades de la córnea}” sub_title=”Hay muchas enfermedades propias de la córnea, tanto hereditarias como adquiridas. Por su importancia podemos destacar las siguientes:” align=”center”][vc_empty_space][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_tta_accordion active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”QUERATOCONO” tab_id=”1563493174473-3f64095d-e7b6″][vc_row_inner gap=”35″][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIYyb9MxMrw”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Keratoconus is a corneal disease that causes thinning and deformity of the cornea, affecting the quality of vision in a way that can range from mild to very severe for the patient.
Keratoconus means cone-shaped cornea, and although the exact cause of the disease is unknown, some genetic and environmental factors have been identified, the most important being eye rubbing with a medical history of allergies.
[/vc_column_text][inwave_accordions layout=”accordion2″ preview_style2=”” item_active=”-1″][inwave_accordion_item title=”Symptoms”]
In its early stages, which occur in adolescence, keratoconus causes irregular astigmatism due to corneal deformation. Blurred vision and image distortion are symptoms of this visual impairment, which then progresses more or less rapidly over time. The condition worsens in daytime vision at all distances (astigmatism and myopia) and also in night vision. Other symptoms may be associated with it: photophobia, eye fatigue, and eye irritation. Eye pain may also occur.
The progression of the disease varies from eye to eye, and keratoconus should be suspected whenever there is a constant change in the degree of astigmatism and myopia, with the added complication that it cannot be adequately corrected with glasses.
[/inwave_accordion_item][inwave_accordion_item title=”Treatment”]
Treatment for keratoconus depends on the time of diagnosis and the degree of progression of the disease. In the early stages, pharmacological treatment (artificial tears and allergy medications) can be started to improve the surface of the cornea, since the bulging characteristic of this disease is very mild. The next step is to correct the astigmatism with contact lenses, since glasses cannot achieve this goal. Over time, the curvature of the lenses will need to be modified to adapt to the corneal deformation, or even a combination of soft and hard lenses may be necessary. When correction of the visual disturbances with contact lenses is no longer possible, the only treatment option is surgery.
Although until recently, corneal transplantation was the only option, effective therapeutic techniques have now been developed that can avoid transplantation, such as corneal crosslinking and intracorneal ring implantation.
There is no treatment to reverse the damage found when we examine corneas with keratoconus. We often need to prescribe glasses, contact lenses, or even schedule more complex surgeries such as intrastromal ring segments, phakic lenses, or corneal transplants to try to improve our patients' vision.
It will then depend on an examination of each eye and each cornea in particular by an expert ophthalmologist, who, based on various examinations, will recommend the best treatment for each particular case.
Until a couple of years ago, there was no treatment that could effectively halt the progression of keratoconus.
Today we can offer our patients a minor surgery called Corneal Crosslinking.
This is an outpatient surgery where a vitamin is placed on the patient's cornea, and under special ultraviolet light, new bonds are induced in the corneal fibers, resulting in a hardening of the cornea, slowing the progression of keratoconus.
This surgery is performed on patients in whom disease progression has been demonstrated in different check-ups and with different examinations.
The goal of this surgery is precisely to stabilize keratoconus and thus try to prevent its progression, which in the worst case can result in a corneal transplant.
Finally, if none of the aforementioned treatments prevent the progression of the disease, a corneal transplant will be necessary, which has evolved significantly in recent years. Currently, a technique called lamellar surgery is used. Instead of having to transplant the entire cornea, only the affected part can be transplanted. This is a less aggressive technique that reduces the possibility of rejection by promoting adaptation of the new tissue to the eye and allowing for faster recovery.
[/inwave_accordion_item][/inwave_accordions][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”CONJUNTIVITIS” tab_id=”1563492533238-371fe378-974d”][vc_row_inner gap=”35″][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2znCmoRl1I”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]La conjuntivitis es la inflamación de la conjuntiva, que es la membrana casi transparente que cubre la parte blanca del ojo (llamada exclera o esclerótica).[/vc_column_text][inwave_accordions layout=”accordion2″ preview_style2=”” item_active=”-1″][inwave_accordion_item title=”Síntomas”]
This disease can be caused by various agents, including bacteria and viruses. There is also allergic conjunctivitis.
Bacterial conjunctivitis: It occurs when bacteria enter the eye (usually due to contaminating the hands and then touching the eyes).
It is characterized by the presence of mucopurulent discharge (known in non-medical terms as "eye mucus") and eye redness. It is generally painless and does not affect vision. It is important to consult an ophthalmologist to receive appropriate antibiotic treatment to reduce the possibility of acute conjunctivitis developing into chronic conjunctivitis.
Viral conjunctivitis: It is usually characterized by greater redness than bacterial conjunctivitis and less discharge. It is a highly contagious disease, so it is very important to avoid touching your eyes and wash your hands as soon as you touch them. Keep a separate towel at home and be careful to avoid close contact with others. This conjunctivitis can eventually affect the cornea and impair vision, so it is important to consult an ophthalmologist.
Allergic conjunctivitis: Characterized by redness and an itchy sensation in the eyes. It is triggered by substances or particles in the environment, such as plant pollen, animal hair, mites that accumulate in places where there is household dust, and chemicals. It is important to minimize exposure to these elements as much as possible and also seek treatment with ocular allergens. It is very important to avoid rubbing your eyes directly, as this repetitive trauma can trigger other serious eye diseases, such as keratoconus.
[/inwave_accordion_item][inwave_accordion_item title=”Treatment”]
The causes of conjunctivitis will influence its treatment. To begin, the eyes should be cleaned, removing secretions with a clean cloth, warm boiled water, or sterile saline solution. Cold compresses and painkillers are also often helpful.
Treatment may include antibiotic eye drops, ointment, or gel. To relieve allergic or viral conjunctivitis, however, the most effective treatment is corticosteroid eye drops. These should never be used if the infection is caused by herpes, as corticosteroids worsen the infection.
Treatment usually lasts a week: the drops are administered four to six times a day, and the ointment or gel two to three times a day. The gel is administered less frequently than the eye drops and doesn't blur vision (as the ointment does).
If symptoms persist, make an appointment with our specialists.
[/inwave_accordion_item][/inwave_accordions][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”OJO SECO” tab_id=”1563493188432-2d063c36-f5fc”][vc_row_inner gap=”35″][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/YM9OtwCNM-8″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
It is a disease of the external part of the eye (eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea and tear) that occurs when it loses its function of protecting, lubricating and improving vision, causing discomfort, inflammation and impaired vision.
Decreased lubrication of the eyes, called dry eye syndrome, is a very common disease in adults, which can affect up to 30% of those over 40 years of age (especially women).
[/vc_column_text][inwave_accordions layout=”accordion2″ preview_style2=”” item_active=”-1″][inwave_accordion_item title=”Symptoms”]
Normal changes in the body with age, as well as hormonal changes, especially in women, have been linked as possible causes.
There are also other cases of dry eye, usually more severe, related to autoimmune diseases, in which the body attacks the body's own tissues. This is known as Sjögren's syndrome, which is also accompanied by dry mouth and can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Dry eye syndrome can be very uncomfortable. The dryness can cause characteristic symptoms such as a foreign body or gritty sensation in the eyes, as well as dryness, burning, or irritation. Occasionally, it can cause blurred vision, which improves with blinking.
There are many factors that can worsen dry eyes, such as dry weather, smoke, pollution, contact lens use, eye allergies, taking certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, or acne medications, and certain eye surgeries such as refractive surgery.
[/inwave_accordion_item][inwave_accordion_item title=”Treatment”]
Diagnosis is usually made during an ophthalmologic examination, although occasionally your ophthalmologist may request special paper strips to measure tear production (Schirmer test) and special stains to assess the ocular surface for changes.
Additionally, another factor to consider in dry eye syndrome is the quantity and quality of a special oil produced by glands on the edge of the eyelids (Meibomian glands).
Treatment ranges from home remedies to improve oil production in the eyelid glands, the use of lubricating drops or gel, and in some more advanced cases, the use of more potent medications such as immunomodulators (cyclosporine and tacrolimus) or steroid anti-inflammatory drugs. Special plugs can also be used at the tear duct to help the tear remain on the surface of the eye longer.
[/inwave_accordion_item][/inwave_accordions][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”BLEFARITIS” tab_id=”1563492533292-53eb00b1-ee75″][vc_row_inner gap=”35″][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/9NsRYOlygHA”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Blepharitis, or eyelid inflammation, is a fairly common disorder that affects the eyelid area where the eyelashes grow. The most common symptoms include watery eyes, red eyes, a gritty feeling, burning or stinging in the eyes, flaking and dandruff around the eyelashes, light sensitivity, and eyelash loss, among others.
Blepharitis is a long-term disorder that is not easy to treat. While it generally does not pose a significant threat to vision, its symptoms can significantly affect patients' quality of life.
For treatment, your ophthalmologist will prescribe hygiene measures, local heat, and, depending on the case, may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory agents. Because a definitive cure is not possible, the goal of therapy is to control symptoms, improve patients' quality of life, and prevent complications such as corneal changes or severe eyelid infections.
[/vc_column_text][inwave_accordions layout=”accordion2″ preview_style2=”” item_active=”-1″][inwave_accordion_item title=”Symptoms”]
It traditionally presents with inflammation, red eyelid margins, peeling, and itching. It can also cause eye burning, redness, and a sensation of foreign bodies in the eye.
It is not normally a disease that leads to vision loss, but it makes the eye prone to multiple alterations such as eyelash loss, repeated infections, dry eye, eyelid deformities, among others.
It is usually associated with inflammation of small glands inside the eyelids called Meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the essential oil for proper lubrication of the ocular surface.
Blepharitis can be infectious, non-infectious, or mixed. Among the infectious causes, the most common is blepharitis caused by Demodex folliculorum (a micro parasite), but bacteria, viruses, and fungi can also be involved.
[/inwave_accordion_item][inwave_accordion_item title=”Treatment”]
The patient suffering from blepharitis must follow a very specific eyelid cleansing regimen, which we carry out here at our COTA Advanced Technology Ophthalmology Center.
An evaluation by an ophthalmologist specializing in the anterior segment is very important to determine the location of the blepharitis, identify the different causes, and, depending on these, offer the best treatment options. This includes constant and permanent hygiene of the external part of the eyes, the use of compresses at a specific temperature, and in more complex situations, hygiene by trained personnel, the use of topical or oral antibiotics, or even minor surgical procedures.
[/inwave_accordion_item][/inwave_accordions][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”PTERIGION” tab_id=”1563493173104-76cf3880-9354″][vc_row_inner gap=”35″][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2znCmoRl1I”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Pterygium is a growth of the conjunctiva and fibrovascular tissue that occurs as a result of exposure to UV rays and repetitive microtrauma (dust, wind, and chronic irritants). The conjunctiva has its anatomical boundary at the corneal limbus (edge of the cornea). A pterygium is defined when it grows beyond this boundary, forming a "web" over the cornea.
[/vc_column_text][inwave_accordions layout=”accordion2″ preview_style2=”” item_active=”-1″][inwave_accordion_item title=”Symptoms”]
It is most prevalent in equatorial countries like Colombia, affects men more than women, and its peak onset is between the ages of 20 and 30.
The symptoms they produce are redness, a foreign body sensation, burning, and stabbing pain. Pterygia can alter the quality of vision by inducing corneal astigmatism, worsening dry eye, and when large, they can approach or even extend beyond the visual axis, impairing vision.
[/inwave_accordion_item][inwave_accordion_item title=”Treatment”]
These conditions can be initially treated with lubricating eye drops or short courses of anti-inflammatory drugs; if symptoms persist, rapid growth is observed, or the visual axis is threatened, surgical management may be considered.
The purpose of surgery is to remove the conjunctiva and abnormal fibrovascular tissue and replace it with healthy conjunctiva, which is secured with stitches for no more than 10 days. Pterygium can recur if the patient does not protect themselves from UV rays and does not properly lubricate their eyes.
[/inwave_accordion_item][/inwave_accordions][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_tta_section][/vc_tta_accordion][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_btn title=”SOLICITE SU CITA” shape=”round” align=”center” el_class=”popmake-3281 pum-trigger”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]