Education Corner

1. What is cataract? Are there ways to cure it completely?A cataract refers to the clouding of the lens inside the eye. The only way to completely treat cataracts is through surgery. Modern cataract surgery technology is highly advanced, with small incisions (2.2 mm) and quick recovery. During the surgery, the doctor removes the cloudy lens and implants an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).   2. What is an intraocular lens (IOL), and how do I choose the right one?There are several types of intraocular lenses to choose from, including: Monofocal lens:This lens provides clear vision at only one distance. Patients can choose whether to have clearer vision for near, intermediate, or far distances. They may still need glasses for other distances. To reduce dependence on glasses after surgery, some patients can use monovision, where one eye is adjusted for near vision and the other for distance vision. It takes time for the brain to adapt, and the doctor will assess suitability beforehand. Multifocal lens:This lens has multiple concentric focusing zones, allowing light from different distances to focus on the retina. The advantage is that patients can see both near and far objects without glasses. However, the brain also needs time to adjust to this new way of seeing. Some patients may experience halos or glare, and vision in dim lighting may be less sharp. Extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) lens:This lens uses optical technology to extend depth of focus, providing continuous vision from far to intermediate distances. It offers smoother vision transitions and tends to cause fewer halos and glare compared with multifocal lenses. Toric lens:For patients with astigmatism, toric lenses can be used—available in monofocal, multifocal, or EDOF versions—to correct astigmatism and improve visual clarity.   Each type of lens has its own advantages and drawbacks. When selecting an appropriate lens, the doctor will consider various factors such as whether the patient prefers not to wear glasses, lifestyle and work needs, and the presence of other eye conditions. For instance, patients with glaucoma or macular disease may not be suitable for multifocal lenses.

Facing the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, hidden transmission chains of new virus variants have recently been spreading in the community, once again drawing public attention to COVID-19 vaccination. Each person has a different physical constitution and may react differently to the vaccine. These reactions also depend on one’s diet and lifestyle. Therefore, maintaining good health and proper nutrition before and after vaccination is important to support the immune system and help the vaccine work effectively. What should I do to prepare for vaccination? Is it helpful to take fever or pain relief medicine after the shot?The purpose of vaccination is to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and immune responses, which may cause local or systemic inflammation. Instead of relying on pain or fever medicine afterward, it is more effective to take key nutrients in advance to reduce inflammation and discomfort. The following nutritional supplements may help ease inflammation before and after vaccination: Vitamin C – Vitamin C plays a vital role in the immune system. Common post-vaccination symptoms such as fever or headache are related to inflammation. Taking Vitamin C early can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Since the human body cannot produce Vitamin C on its own, and cooking fruits and vegetables may destroy it while increasing sugar intake, Vitamin C supplements can help enhance antioxidant capacity and strengthen immunity. Omega-3 fatty acids – Omega-3s are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids that help maintain normal body functions and have broad anti-inflammatory benefits. They strengthen the immune system and help reduce potential vaccine-related side effects. The recommended daily intake for adults is 600–1000 mg, but dietary intake is usually low since these fatty acids are mainly found in deep-sea fish and cannot be produced by the body. People who consume little fish or are concerned about heavy metal contamination can conveniently obtain Omega-3s through high-concentration fish oil supplements. Prebiotics – Gut health plays a key role in maximizing vaccine effectiveness. About 70% of immune cells are concentrated in the gut, the body’s frontline defense. Prebiotics, especially when combined with probiotics, can improve gut flora balance, promote bowel movement, and enhance immune resistance, which is particularly beneficial for people with weaker immune systems.     2. Why do I feel tired after vaccination? How can I relieve this?Feeling fatigued for a few days after vaccination is normal, as the body’s immune system becomes active to build protection. It is crucial to maintain a healthy and regular lifestyle during the two weeks following vaccination to help your body recover. Avoid smoking, drinking, and staying up late. Drink plenty of water (at least 2,000 ml per day) to support circulation and speed up metabolism, which helps ease immune reactions. In terms of diet, focus on high-fiber, low-fat, and low-sugar foods. Limit fried and processed foods such as cakes, chips, and luncheon meat, which can trigger inflammation and slow recovery. Choose high-quality protein instead, including “white meats” and plant-based proteins such as fish, chicken, eggs, and tofu. These are lower in fat, reduce body burden, and help support immune function, white blood cell production, and antibody formation.  

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage, bringing a heavy burden to the world, with cases and outbreaks still occurring in Hong Kong. To reduce the impact of COVID-19 on public health and society, vaccination is the greatest hope for the world to emerge from the epidemic. Many countries have begun rolling out vaccinations, hoping to control the pandemic as soon as possible. So far, the government has introduced three COVID-19 vaccines: Vaccine Name Sinovac (CoronaVac) Fosun Pharma / BioNTech (Germany) (Comirnaty) AstraZeneca & Oxford University Type Inactivated vaccine mRNA / Messenger RNA COVID-19 vaccine Non-replicating viral vector vaccine Efficacy* 50% to 90% (varies by region) 95% 70-90% Technology Uses complete, inactivated, non-toxic pathogen to induce immune response in the body. mRNA instructs cells to produce a protein, triggering an immune response to prevent virus invasion. Uses genetic engineering to add virus spike protein gene to adenovirus; unloads gene in cells to induce immune response. Manufacturer Sinovac Biotech Fosun Pharma & BioNTech (Germany) AstraZeneca & Oxford University Production Location Beijing, China Germany No relevant data available Doses 2 doses, 28 days apart 2 doses, at least 21 days apart 2 doses Eligible Age 18 years and above 16 years and above   Storage Temperature 2-8°C -70°C Can be stored at 2-5°C for 5 days; 2-8°C     Notes: Requires special cold storage and dilution first. *For reference only; check official latest announcements for accurate data. Possible Side Effects Most vaccines are generally safe, with common mild and temporary side effects like slight fever, redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. Some people may experience more serious adverse reactions, but these are generally rare. Vaccination Program The COVID-19 vaccination program is about to launch, offering free COVID-19 vaccines to all Hong Kong citizens. The government plans to provide vaccination services at the following locations*: Community Vaccination Centers (CVCs): 29 centers across Hong Kong's 18 districts, operating for at least 6 months. Open daily from 8am to 8pm. Each center offers one vaccine type: Sinovac at Kowloon Bay Sports Centre, Tin Shui Wai Tin Fai Road Sports Centre, Hong Kong Central Library, Yau Ma Tei Jordan Sau Shing Sports Centre, and Sha Tin Yuen Wo Road Sports Centre; the other 24 offer Comirnaty. 18 General Out-patient Clinics under Hospital Authority. Residential care homes for the elderly and disabled (outreach service). Over 1,500 private clinics. Vaccination Arrangements Starting next Friday, 5 vaccination centers and general out-patient clinics will vaccinate priority groups; participating private doctors can join from early next month. Eligible persons can select vaccine, appointment time, and location via online system; bring ID and priority group proof on the day. Online booking is mandatory for CVCs and clinics. *Details await government announcement. 5 Priority Groups Based on latest scientific evidence on government-procured vaccines, overseas health authority advice, and experience, priority goes to high-risk persons and those essential for social operations, in this order: Healthcare workers and anti-epidemic personnel. Elderly aged 60+. Residents and staff of residential care homes for the elderly/disabled. Disciplined forces and public service personnel handling environmental hygiene, etc. Cross-boundary truck drivers, aircrew, and other port transport workers. For 70+ elderly, up to 2 accompanying persons can get priority vaccination. For online booking or more vaccine info, visit: www.covidvaccine.gov.hk

Corns from Wearing High Heels — Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Many women develop corns from frequently wearing high heels, which can cause severe pain when walking if left untreated. So what exactly is a corn? Is it contagious? How can it be managed or prevented? This article invites a specialist to answer these common questions for you.   Is a lump on a joint a corn?When the skin experiences prolonged friction or pressure, the outer layer thickens and forms calluses — commonly known as corns. Corns usually develop as a single lesion on areas exposed to pressure, such as the bottoms of the feet, between the toes, or on the outer sides of the little toes. When pressed, they can stimulate nerves and cause pain. Corns are generally divided into two types: hard corns and soft corns. Apperance  Common Locations  Type  Hard corn Pressure points on the sole, tops, or outer sides of toes Round or oval in shape Soft corn Between the toes Softer texture, whitish in color   Corns are typically a few millimeters in size. When the thickened callus penetrates into the dermis, it forms a round or oval core surrounded by a translucent, pale yellow ring.   Why do corns form?Most corns develop from wearing shoes that are too tight or too loose, or from walking with poor posture. High heels in particular increase pressure on the toes, significantly raising the likelihood of developing corns.   How to tell the difference between a corn, a callus, and a wart?Corns and calluses are both caused by repeated friction and are not contagious. Warts, however, are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can spread. Condition Cause  Apperance  Contagious?  Common Locations Corn Repeated friction or pressure causes overgrowth of keratin Small area with a white or translucent center No Soles or toe joints Callus Repeated friction or pressure Larger, flat area without a distinct core No Pressure points on feet or hands Wart Viral infection (HPV) Raised surface with tiny black dots; can multiply through spread Yes Any body part     How to effectively remove corns? If the corn is just beginning to form, try regular foot care first: Soak feet in warm water for about 15 minutes daily. Gently rub the area in circular motions using a pumice stone to smooth the surface. Apply moisturizer afterward. If discomfort or pain occurs, consider one of the following four treatment methods: Corn plasters or medicated solutions:These usually contain salicylic acid and are suitable for mild cases. Since salicylic acid is highly corrosive, it may irritate the surrounding skin, so use with caution and allow a few days between treatments. Most mild corns heal in about a week after proper use.Important: Do not attempt to dig out or cut the corn yourself. Corns extend into the dermis, and trimming them with nail clippers can cause bleeding, tissue damage, or bacterial infection, making the condition worse. Cryotherapy:This treatment sprays liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy superficial tissue. It needs to be done gradually to control the depth of tissue damage and usually requires several sessions. Laser therapy:A common and precise treatment method. Laser therapy removes the keratinized layer without harming nearby tissue, helping the wound heal faster and reducing the chance of recurrence. Surgical removal:For severe or persistent cases, surgical excision may be considered to remove the corn completely.   Do corns always need treatment? When is it necessary?Not always. Mild corns can usually be managed with regular foot care, corn plasters, or ointments. However, if walking causes pain or significant discomfort, medical treatment should be considered.   How to prevent corns? Protecting your feet in daily life is key to prevention: Wear properly fitted shoes. Avoid narrow-toed or non-breathable heels and leather shoes. Choose comfortable cotton socks to protect against friction. Use insoles to reduce pressure and rubbing. Soak and moisturize feet regularly to soften thickened skin. Maintain proper walking posture to avoid prolonged pressure on specific areas of the foot.

There are many causes of sore throat, ranging from the common cold to more serious conditions like influenza or inflammation. While many people tend to overlook a mild sore throat, persistent pain may be caused by inflammation or even malignant tumors — so it must not be ignored.   Why does a sore throat occur? Is it always a sign of a cold? The “throat” generally refers to both the pharynx and larynx — the upper airway area extending from the nasal cavity to the esophagus and trachea. A sore throat can have many causes, and not all are related to infections. Sometimes, irritation alone can lead to pain: Foreign body: When objects (such as fish bones) get stuck in the throat, they can cause discomfort and soreness. Vocal strain: Overuse of the voice (such as shouting or singing loudly) can inflame the vocal cords, causing hoarseness and pain. Dietary irritation: Alcoholic drinks with high alcohol content or spicy foods can irritate the throat and trigger inflammation. Smoking and air pollution: Cigarette smoke irritates the airways, and so does secondhand smoke. Poor air quality or excessively dry air can also cause throat pain. Gastroesophageal reflux (acid reflux): When stomach acid flows back into the throat, it erodes the mucous lining, resulting in burning pain. Accidental ingestion of chemicals: Swallowing corrosive or alkaline substances can severely damage the throat’s mucous membranes and cause intense pain. Sore throats caused by irritation usually do not come with other symptoms. However, many sore throats are due to infections. Pathogens can spread through lymphatic fluid or blood, or directly invade throat tissue, causing inflammation, swelling, and in severe cases, pus formation.   What foods or drinks can relieve throat discomfort? At the early stage of a sore throat, the following may help ease discomfort: Cold or warm drinks: If swallowing is painful, drink cold or warm tea (with honey, if preferred). Letting ice melt in the mouth can also relieve pain. However, infants under one year old should not consume honey due to the risk of botulism. Throat lozenges: Lozenges containing menthol provide a cooling effect that soothes irritation. Children or teenagers can also suck on hard candies. Saltwater gargle: Mix half a teaspoon of salt into 240 ml of warm water and gargle to reduce inflammation. Avoid irritants such as spicy or acidic foods and drinks. If these home remedies do not help, over-the-counter medicines like painkillers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — for example, ibuprofen or naproxen — may provide relief. Always consult a pharmacist and follow the dosage instructions carefully.   When should you see a doctor? Seek immediate medical attention if a sore throat is accompanied by any of the following: A foreign object (e.g. fish bone) stuck in the throat causing breathing difficulty. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. A high-pitched sound when inhaling (stridor), which may indicate airway narrowing. A child leaning forward while breathing — a possible sign of epiglottitis, a serious condition blocking the airway. Muffled or “potato-like” speech. Continuous drooling due to difficulty swallowing. Swelling of the tongue or neck. Inability to move the neck or open the mouth. Also, if your sore throat persists and is accompanied by any of the following, visit a clinic for examination: High fever above 38°C or fever that does not subside. Headache, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. Swollen neck lymph nodes. Earache. Rash on the body or “strawberry tongue.” Red, irritated eyes. Presence of pus in the throat.   How is a sore throat treated? Doctors first ensure the airway is clear, then treat pain and accompanying symptoms. If the sore throat is diagnosed as viral or bacterial, appropriate medication will be prescribed. Patients can support recovery by ensuring sufficient rest. Fatigue and weakened immunity can delay healing. Getting enough sleep and reducing stress are essential for strengthening the immune system and alleviating symptoms.   Could persistent sore throat indicate a serious condition? Pharyngitis: Acute pharyngitis is inflammation caused by infection. The throat becomes red, swollen, and painful, often accompanied by fever and headache. Repeated episodes can lead to chronic pharyngitis, causing ongoing discomfort or a foreign-body sensation in the throat, sometimes with coughing. Mumps (Parotitis): Inflammation of the parotid gland (beneath the ears) caused by viral infection spread through droplets. Symptoms include fever, facial swelling and pain, headache, muscle soreness, fatigue, poor appetite, and painful swallowing. Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland may cause hormone imbalance — leading to hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism — with symptoms like heat intolerance, palpitations, anxiety, sore throat, fatigue, muscle pain, and hoarseness. Tonsillitis: When the tonsils (at the sides of the throat) are infected, they become red, swollen, and in severe cases, develop pus. Patients often experience high fever (up to 39–40°C), severe throat pain, and fatigue. If the infection spreads, it can cause swollen and painful lymph nodes in the neck. Tonsil cancer: A malignant tumor of the tonsil, usually linked to smoking and drinking. Typical symptoms include persistent one-sided throat discomfort or a foreign-body sensation, sometimes with mild pain radiating to the ear. Diagnosis requires biopsy.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, people have been wearing masks for long periods, which can increase facial oil secretion and lead to skin breakouts. Many assume it is acne or an allergic reaction, but it might actually be rosacea. So, what exactly is rosacea?   What is rosacea? Rosacea is a chronic skin condition caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It occurs when the nervous system controlling facial blood vessels becomes dysregulated, leading to excessive facial flushing and visible redness. Common triggers include genetic predisposition and environmental influences. Rosacea most often affects women over 30, but men and people of all ages can also develop it.   What are the symptoms of rosacea? The symptoms of rosacea generally progress through four stages: Intermittent facial flushing: The face—especially the cheeks and nose—becomes red and feels warm or mildly stinging. Persistent redness and visible blood vessels: The redness becomes constant. On closer inspection, small, branching blood vessels (telangiectasia) can be seen on the cheeks and nose, affecting appearance. Papules and pustules: Small red bumps and pus-filled spots appear, resembling acne. However, unlike acne, rosacea typically does not cause clogged pores, blackheads, or whiteheads. Thickened skin and enlarged nose: Prolonged congestion may cause the skin to become thick and rough. In some cases, the nose becomes enlarged and red, a condition commonly called “rhinophyma” or “whiskey nose.”   How is rosacea different from acne? Although rosacea and acne can look similar, they are distinct in cause and treatment: Skin Condition Rosacea Acne Common patients Women aged 20–40 Teenagers (both male and female) Main causes Triggered by factors such as sunlight, diet, heat, or alcohol Caused by clogged pores and bacterial growth Treatment Antibiotic creams, retinoid-based topical medications; moderate to severe cases may need oral antibiotics (e.g. erythromycin, tetracyclines) or laser/light therapy Topical antibiotics or retinoids for moderate to severe cases Prevention Avoid triggers that dilate blood vessels – such as sun exposure, heat, alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, chocolate, and cheese Avoid oily, high-carb, and dairy-based foods that increase sebum production     Why do I have rosacea? Many factors can trigger rosacea, with diet being one of the most common. Alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and spicy foods often worsen the condition. Other triggers include: Sun exposure Hot environments Emotional stress New skincare or cosmetic products Chronic facial inflammation (such as eczema or contact dermatitis) Long-term use of steroid creams   How can rosacea be treated? Do I need to see a doctor? Managing rosacea starts with lifestyle changes. Patients should avoid known triggers, manage stress, and reduce alcohol and caffeine intake. Daily prevention includes wearing sunscreen, avoiding spicy foods, and using gentle cleansers without exfoliating ingredients. Choose simple skincare products with minimal additives. In terms of medication: Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory creams or retinoid-based topical medication. For more severe cases, oral antibiotics (such as tetracyclines or macrolides) may be prescribed to control inflammation. Treatment usually lasts 3 to 4 months, depending on the condition. For those taking antibiotics long term, doctors may order blood tests periodically to monitor for side effects.   Some patients, after diagnosis, may opt for laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. These treatments are typically performed once a month, and most patients notice improvement after 2 to 4 sessions. Before starting, the doctor will assess suitability, explain how the procedure works, and discuss potential risks.