Eye diseases: Medics warn against self-medication

A patient undergoing an eye operation at Transcent Eye Clinic in Cherang'any, Trans Nzoia County. May 16, 2025. [Martin Ndiema, Standard]

Health care officials in Busia County have raised concerns over a sharp increase in eye illnesses.

The medics said many of the conditions are preventable if detected and treated early, and warned the residents to avoid self-medication and instead seek professional help.

Speaking during an eye health workshop held at the Busia County Referral Hospital, Dr Harriet Kavere, the chief ophthalmologist at the facility, attributed the worsening eye conditions in the county to self-diagnosis, misuse of eye medication, and a general reluctance to visit licensed clinics.

"Between 85 and 90 per cent of eye problems can be prevented or treated effectively if addressed early. Unfortunately, we are seeing a dangerous trend of people resorting to over-the-counter drops or traditional remedies without any medical guidance," said Dr Kavere.

She warned that inappropriate use of eye medication can result in irreversible vision loss.

Pastor Boniface Owino of Cornerstone Pentecostal Ministry appealed to residents to shun beliefs that associate eye diseases with witchcraft.

"Eye diseases are not a curse but medical conditions. People need to go to hospitals, not shrines. It is our duty as religious leaders to promote health," he said.

Participants at the workshop decried the shortage of specialised personnel and eye clinics in the county, urging the government and NGOs to invest more in eye care infrastructure.

Francis Namuju, a representative from an NGO, said they have the equipment, but the challenge is the shortage of trained personnel.

The expansion of eye care services in the county, supported by the Fred Hollows Foundation, has brought relief to many residents who previously had to travel long distances to facilities in Kakamega and Sabatia.

"I used to travel long distances to get eye treatment, but now I can get help close to home," said Jane Etyang, a resident of Matayos.