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Eye health is crucial to our overall well-being, yet many people ignore symptoms until they become serious. Two common but different eye conditions that affect people across Nigeria are Apollo eye disease (popularly known as conjunctivitis) and glaucoma. While conjunctivitis is usually temporary and treatable, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss if not managed properly.

In this blog, we'll guide you through how to cure Apollo eye disease and provide insights into the glaucoma eye surgery cost in Nigeria, so you can take the right steps for your eye health.

What is Apollo Eye Disease?

Apollo eye disease is the local name in Nigeria for viral conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball.

It is highly contagious and usually spreads rapidly during the dry season or harmattan in Nigeria.

Common Symptoms:

• Redness in the eyes
• Itching or burning sensation
• Tearing or watery discharge
• Swollen eyelids
• Sensitivity to light
• Gritty feeling (like sand in the eye)

Causes of Apollo Eye Disease

Apollo is caused by a virus, but it can also be due to:

• Bacterial infections
• Allergies
• Exposure to dust or smoke
• Irritants like chlorine or chemicals

It spreads through:

• Hand-to-eye contact
• Shared towels, pillows, or cosmetics
• Touching infected surfaces

How to Cure Apollo Eye Disease

1. Maintain Proper Hygiene

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
• Use a clean towel and do not share it with others.

2. Use Warm Compresses

Applying a warm compress to the affected eye helps soothe irritation and remove crusts formed during infection.

3. Antiviral or Antibacterial Eye Drops

• For viral conjunctivitis, most cases heal on their own within 7–10 days. Artificial tears and cold compresses can help.
• For bacterial conjunctivitis, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops like chloramphenicol or ciprofloxacin.

4. Allergy-Relief Medication

If caused by an allergen, antihistamine drops or oral medication may be prescribed.

5. Avoid Contact Lenses

Do not wear contact lenses until the infection clears completely.

6. Visit an Ophthalmologist

If symptoms last longer than 10 days, or if there’s pain, blurred vision, or excessive discharge, consult a doctor. Apollo is usually mild but complications can occur if neglected.

Prevention Tips for Apollo Eye Disease

• Don’t share towels, pillows, or cosmetics.
• Clean mobile phones and eyeglasses regularly.
• Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs and remote controls.
• Avoid crowded or dusty places during outbreaks.
• Keep your hands clean and avoid eye contact.

Transitioning to a Serious Condition: Glaucoma

While Apollo is typically a short-term problem, glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that can cause permanent vision loss. It's essential to understand the difference and know when to seek help for long-term eye problems.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). If untreated, it can lead to irreversible blindness.

Unlike Apollo, glaucoma often has no early symptoms, making regular eye exams critical.

Common Symptoms:

• Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
• Tunnel vision in advanced stages
• Sudden eye pain (acute glaucoma)
• Headache, nausea, or blurred vision in some cases

Types of Glaucoma

1. Open-Angle Glaucoma – Most common, slow-progressing.
2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma – Rapid increase in eye pressure; a medical emergency.
3. Normal-Tension Glaucoma – Damage occurs even with normal eye pressure.
4. Congenital Glaucoma – Present at birth or develops in early childhood.

Treatment for Glaucoma

1. Eye Drops

Lower intraocular pressure and are usually the first line of treatment.

2. Oral Medications

Used in more advanced cases to reduce fluid production in the eye.

3. Laser Treatment

Helps improve drainage or reduce fluid production.

4. Surgery

When other treatments fail, glaucoma eye surgery becomes essential.

Glaucoma Eye Surgery Cost in Nigeria

The cost of glaucoma surgery in Nigeria varies depending on:

• The city and clinic
• The type of surgery performed
• Whether public or private healthcare is used
• Additional diagnostic and follow-up fees

Estimated Costs:

These prices are estimates and may vary based on the clinic and patient condition. Some government hospitals offer subsidized rates.

Final Thoughts

If you’re suffering from Apollo eye disease, quick treatment and hygiene can bring fast relief. On the other hand, if you’re at risk for or have been diagnosed with glaucoma, early action is crucial. Glaucoma cannot be reversed, but it can be controlled with proper care, medication, and sometimes surgery.

Knowing the glaucoma eye surgery cost in Nigeria helps you make informed decisions about your vision and your future. Eye health is not something to postpone—take action now to protect your sight.