LASIK and Diabetes

Undergoing LASIK with a Diabetic Person

Diabetes is a major health problem in today’s society, and many who are living with this disease might wonder about the compatibility of LASIK and diabetes. Diabetics are prone to conditions that can be worsened with refractive surgery, so there has been concern that they should perhaps avoid the procedure. However, recent studies conclude that it is possible to safely perform LASIK on patients who are diabetic.

With diabetes, the blood sugar in the body is dangerously high. Symptoms vary and include fatigue, frequent urination, weight loss, and blurred vision. If left untreated, this condition can cause an eye problem called retinopathy, in which damaged blood vessels cause vision problems. Traditional LASIK can worsen this condition, so it is recommended that patients with diabetic retinopathy avoid refractive surgery.

For patients whose diabetes is under control, however, there is a good chance that LASIK can improve vision. A recent study by the Gimbel Eye Centre, in Calgary Canada, analyzed LASIK results in diabetic patients. Researchers found that, while there is a higher rate of patients needing further enhancement procedures, there is not a higher risk of epithelial problems. This is significant because prior studies had indicated complications at about eight times the normal rate. The new study put the enhancement rate of diabetics at about 28 percent, as opposed to the average rate of 10 percent.

If you are diabetic and are concerned about your vision, it may please you to know that LASIK and diabetes are not mutually exclusive. For many diabetic patients, vision can be greatly improved with laser vision correction. The Tylock-George Eye Care and Laser Center can give you the answers you need to make an informed choice. With over twenty years of experience, their skilled staff is committed to delivering quality patient care, using state-of-the-art technology. Call them with any questions you may have, or visit their website to learn more. To join the conversation in the online community, like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.