Archive for March, 2011

What is LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) treatment and what are its advantages?

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a cosmetic procedure that uses a laser to correct the vision. It not only improves the vision but also improves the overall quality of life. Advances in refractive laser vision correction have provided patients with a number of options that allow them to reduce or eliminate their dependency on glasses and contact lenses. The most popular refractive procedure, LASIK, has successfully been performed on millions of patients worldwide.

The goal of LASIK is to improve vision to the point of reducing your dependence on glass. If a small degree of refractive error persists after the procedure, a re treatment i.e. the enhancement procedure can be done, in selected cases. The chances of regression are almost nil by this procedure but if it occurs, it can be re-treated.
For LASIK treatment, one should be at least 18 years old and demonstrate no change in spectacle number for at least one year. Presbyopia or near vision cannot be satisfactorily corrected by laser procedures. Patients who have undergone LASIK will get near vision glasses due to normal aging process.

Generally, both eyes are treated at the same sitting which is more convenient and least disruptive to the patient’s work and lifestyle. The LASIK procedure itself takes only about five minutes per eye but you may have to stay in clinic for about 30 minutes.

The LASIK procedure, as such is near painless. Some patients complain of mild discomfort after the procedure which can be easily controlled by medications. LASIK procedure is reasonably safe procedure. Problems, if at all they occur are minor and not visually significant. One can resume your work within 72 hours.

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What is a sprain? How to treat a sprain?

Sprain is used to describe a wide range of injuries. But a true sprain involves damage to ligaments i.e. bands of elastic like tissue that supports joints such as knee, ankle, shoulder by connecting the bones. A sprain occurs when a twist or stretch causes a joint to move outside its normal range of motion and ligaments stretch or tear.

A symptom can cause the joint to swell rapidly. Discoloration of your skin from the rupture of small blood vessels may occur. There may be pain and tenderness and joint function may be impaired. To treat a minor soft tissue injury, remember PRICE which stands for Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.

Protection: Protect your joint from further injury. An elastic wrap, brace, sling, air cast, cane or crutches may help support the joint and encourage healing.
Rest: Avoid movements of the injured joint that cause pain or swelling.
Ice: Cold reduces swelling and inflammation, decreases muscle spasms and help relieve pain. Apply ice or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or towel or use a bag of frozen peas which conforms well to the body. Cover the ice pack with a dry towel or a blanket for insulation. Apply ice for no more than 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Do not apply heat, which can cause more swelling. If you have vascular disease, rheumatism or decreased sensation, take your doctor’s advice.
Compression: This decreases bruising and swelling. Keep the joint wrapped snug but not tight until swelling subsides. Loosen if pain increases or you have numbness.
Elevation: Raising a swollen joint above the level of your heart reduces swelling. This is especially important at night.

Continue this treatment as long as it helps.You should see a doctor if you:
- hear a popping sound.
- have immediate difficulty using the injured joint.
- can not put weight on the joint.
- see significant deformity or swelling.
- if pain and difficulty continue for longer than 2 or 3 days.