Research Articles (Ophthalmology)

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Browsing Research Articles (Ophthalmology) by Subject "Eye -- Diseases"

Now showing 1 - 3 of 3
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    Anti-allergic ophthalmic drugs in general practice : which, why and when?
    (Medpharm Publications, 2013) Mohamed, N.; Smit, D. P.
    Ocular allergies present in many different guises. They may vary from self-limiting episodes of acute allergic conjunctivitis, to potentially sight-threatening chronic conditions, such as vernal keratoconjunctivitis. This article provides a brief description of the different ocular allergic conditions to aid accurate diagnosis. It also focuses on the different types of anti-allergic ophthalmic preparations and how to employ them in a logical, stepwise management strategy to obtain optimal results, while minimising exposure to potent drugs with potentially serious side-effects.
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    Dealing with dry eye disease in general practice
    (Medpharm Publications, 2012) Smit, Derrick
    Dry eye disease (DED) is a very common condition with significant morbitity. It is under-diagnosed by healthcare practitioners, since the presenting symptoms are often non-specific or misleading, and clinical signs may be subtle, or absent. To help overcome this problem, validated symptom questionnaires have been developed to aid the diagnosis, and grading of severity, of DED. Recent advances in the understanding of the multifactorial aetiology of this condition have also permitted the development of modalities aimed at treating specific underlying causes, rather than merely alleviating symptoms. An awareness of the causes and risk factors involved in this disease will assist the family practitioner in recommending lifestyle and dietary changes that, on their own, may provide sufferers with considerable symptomatic relief. A better understanding of the pathophysiology will, in turn, allow the family practitioner to make informed choices when prescribing initial treatment, and also guide the practitioner to know when to refer a patient for specialist management.
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    Eyelid problems in general practice
    (Medpharm Publications, 2012) Smit, Derrick P.
    General practitioners are often confronted with complaints regarding the eyelids. The author presents a number of clinical cases that illustrate common eyelid problems, and provides a discussion of each case to highlight the important features of the condition. Appropriate treatment for each condition is also covered. Many eyelid conditions are amenable to treatment from general practitioners, but those conditions requiring specialist management need to be identified, and referred appropriately.