From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A community health advocate, Alhaji Azeez Amuda, popularly known as Baba Oloju, has emphasised the importance of regular eye checkups for all Nigerians, recommending at least one examination per year.
Speaking on the dangers of self-medication and reliance on unqualified practitioners, Amuda, cautioned against visiting quacks and small chemists for eye issues.
He highlighted the risks of following unverified advice, which often leads to severe complications, including blindness.
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“Many people lose their sight because they rely on hearsay for treating eye conditions. For example, some mothers apply breast milk to treat conjunctivitis in newborns, which can result in complete blindness,” Amuda explained.
He urged Nigerians to consult qualified healthcare professionals for any eye-related concerns and to seek proper medical advice before using any treatments or eyeglasses.
He also pointed out the link between high blood pressure and eye problems, stressing the need to monitor blood pressure during eye treatments.
Amuda further warned about the silent nature of glaucoma, a serious eye condition that can lead to cataracts and eventual blindness if left unchecked.
He advocated for annual eye examinations to catch such conditions early.
The expert also advised taking breaks during activities that strain the eyes, suggesting resting the eyes for a few minutes every hour.
On nutrition, Amuda recommended consuming foods rich in protein and calcium, such as mangoes, palm oil, and dry fish, which are beneficial for maintaining good vision.
He also highlighted the importance of immunizing children from birth to the age of five to prevent blindness caused by measles, and stressed the need for adequate Vitamin A intake.
Additionally, he called on mothers to maintain high standards of hygiene, particularly when caring for babies and toddlers, to prevent eye infections.
