Xerophthalmia (Xerophthalmia)

Xerophthalmia (Xerophthalmia) is a progressive eye disease associated with a deficiency of vitamin A in the body. Its main symptoms are dryness, thickening and wrinkling of the cornea and conjunctiva. The disease can be complicated by keratomalacia and ultimately lead to blindness.

Xerophthalmia develops with a long-term lack of vitamin A in food. Most often this occurs due to malnutrition or a monotonous diet that does not contain foods with vitamin A. Children in developing countries are at risk.

The first signs of xerophthalmia are photophobia and night blindness due to a decrease in the eyes' ability to adapt to darkness. Then dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea and redness of the eyes appear. The cornea becomes dull and thins. In severe cases, it can ulcerate or scar, leading to blindness.

Treatment consists of prescribing vitamin A medications and eliminating its deficiency in the body. With timely treatment, xerophthalmia is completely reversible. Therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms early and consult a doctor immediately. Prevention - regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin A.

Xerophthalmia

Xerophthalmia is a progressive eye disease associated with a deficiency of vitamin A in the body. The main symptoms of xerophthalmia are dryness, thickening and wrinkling of the cornea and conjunctiva.

The reason for the development of xerophthalmia is insufficient intake of vitamin A into the body from food. As a result, the normal renewal of the epithelium of the cornea and conjunctiva is disrupted, which leads to their dryness and keratinization.

As the disease progresses, the cornea becomes cloudy and may become ulcerated and vascularized. It is also possible to develop keratomalacia - softening of the cornea, which is accompanied by ulceration and perforation. In severe cases, xerophthalmia can lead to complete loss of vision.

Treatment of xerophthalmia consists of prescribing vitamin A medications and eliminating its deficiency in the body. Local instillations of artificial tears and antibacterial drops are also carried out. If complications develop, surgical treatment may be required.

Prevention of xerophthalmia consists of a complete and balanced diet that ensures a sufficient supply of vitamin A. The main sources of this vitamin are liver, fish oil, dairy products, carrots, and dark green vegetables.