Ophthalmology

Our expert ophthalmologists offer insight into all aspects of the eye, from blindness to cataracts.

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Diabetes

Can you prevent diabetic retinopathy?

It’s the third most common cause of blindness in South Africa after cataracts and glaucoma. Diabetic retinopathy may not have any symptoms at first – but finding it early means you can take steps

Conditions

4 common eye conditions: symptoms and treatment

Losing your vision doesn’t have to be inevitable – even as you age or have a condition that’s known to lead to vision loss. Dr Meldrick Booysen is an ophthalmologist

Ophthalmology

Cataracts: What you need to know [INFOGRAPHIC]

A cataract is a progressive clouding of the eye’s natural (crystalline) lens – and is the leading cause of vision problems among adults over age 55. What can be done?

Ophthalmology

Same-day eye surgery options to improve your vision

Modern-day eye surgery is faster, less of a hassle and less scary than many people imagine. A specialist gives us the lowdown. Eye surgery may sound daunting, but nowadays you

Ophthalmology

What an ophthalmologist wants you to know about cataracts

A cataract is an eye condition that is easily remedied with a routine surgical procedure. Lorraine Petersen from Mitchell’s Plain explains that her mother’s failing eyesight was affecting her quality

DID YOU KNOW?

  • Our expert breastfeeding advice is based on the principles of the United Nations Children’s Fund and the World Health Organisation.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • To make the most of every second, we strive to synchronise all our clocks in the hospital.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Nurses can observe patients at all times as critical care units are designed like a beehive with the nurses’ station in the middle.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • A baby weighing 390g survived thanks to the expertise of Mediclinic’s highly qualified paediatric staff and specialists.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Immunisations save lives and help stop diseases from spreading.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • We install alcohol rub dispensers at our facilities to prevent the spread of pathogens.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Mediclinic trains more than a thousand nurses annually at training centres throughout Southern Africa.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • We place oxygen-releasing, toxin-absorbing plants, like Sanseviera Trifasciata, around our hospitals.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • An orange has over 170 different phytonutrients and more than 60 flavonoids, providing anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and blood clot-inhibiting effects.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Scrub areas in theatre are a minimum of 2.1m wide to accommodate at least two people at a time.
    #MediclinicFacts
Magazine

Seeing eye to eye: The impact of cornea donors

Two patients are on the mend thanks to innovative care and the generosity of cornea donors. You can help too.

Ophthalmology

You may not see the symptoms of glaucoma

Generally undiagnosed in its early stages, glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the eye’s optic nerve. Because symptoms usually only appear once some damage has already been done, it can result in vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness. Yet once it’s diagnosed it can be treated, preventing further damage.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • To prevent harmful bacteria being absorbed by mattresses we use protective under sheets made from polypropylene.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • A jumping rope uses almost every muscle in the entire body during exercise.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Immunisations save lives and help stop diseases from spreading.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • An orange has over 170 different phytonutrients and more than 60 flavonoids, providing anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and blood clot-inhibiting effects.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • We use a yacht-mast design for our cabling and keep it safely wound up in our trauma pedestals to avoid any accidents.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • A baby has a 70% better chance of surviving a motor vehicle accident if in a secure car seat and properly restrained.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Our hospitals have been awarded international accreditation for best practice in the management of environmental systems and practices.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Nurses can observe patients at all times as critical care units are designed like a beehive with the nurses’ station in the middle.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Mediclinic has the highest number of internationally accredited facilities in Southern Africa.
    #MediclinicFacts
  • Our hospitals did the first minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve implant procedure in Africa.
    #MediclinicFacts
Ophthalmology

Glaucoma demystified [infographic]

Potentially resulting in blindness, glaucoma can’t be cured but it can be controlled. We look at how glaucoma affects your eyes and uncover some interesting facts about the condition.

Healthy Life

7 Everyday risks to your eyes – and how to avoid them

Imagine this: You’ve cleaned the patio, and you’re ready to spend a sunny afternoon in the garden. You open an ice-cold drink, Google some new recipes, then take a dip in the pool before lighting the braai and watching the kids play on the grass.

Diabetes

7 Eye tests that look at more than just your vision

When you go to the optometrist because you’re having trouble seeing, a vision test is usually conducted. This test assesses how well you can see and your ability to discern objects. However, many eye conditions and diseases present no symptoms, so there’s a range of tests available to see what your eyes can’t. An ophthalmologist and an eye surgeon explain.

Ophthalmology

Why is my vision worsening?

As you age, it’s natural for your vision to deteriorate. Thanks to modern medicine, there is usually a treatment option for your condition. An eye specialist at Mediclinic Pietermaritzburg explains more.

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