Diabetes and eye health are closely interlinked. Those with diabetes should make it a point to see an eye doctor at least once a year. Those with high blood sugar are at high risk of developing blurry vision, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Some of these eye conditions may require surgery. If you or any of your family members have diabetes, you are bound to have questions regarding surgery.
As one of the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata, we answer some of the frequently asked questions on diabetes and eye surgery:
Question 1: Can diabetics have eye surgery?
Yes, diabetics can undergo any type of eye surgery. However, the type of eye surgery depends on your general health and the eye condition that you have. In some cases, you may have to wait until your general health has improved. An eye doctor can advise you on whether eye surgery is suitable for you and if yes, when is the most suitable time.
Question 2: Do I need to keep sugar levels under control before surgery?
Yes, doctors will recommend you keep your sugar levels under control. High sugar levels increase the risk of complications after surgery such as:
- Slow healing
- Infection
- Heart problems
Your eye doctor and endocrinologist will help control your diabetes. This may mean that your average sugar level reading or the three-monthly HbA1c reading needs to be in a particular range.
Question 3: Do I need to fast before eye surgery?
For all types of eye surgeries, patients are instructed to not eat or drink 12 hours before eye surgery. This is because before the surgery muscle relaxing medications are given. If the stomach has food and drinks inside it, the chances of vomiting are there. If that happens, the food could enter the lungs and affect breathing.
Question 4: Do I need to stop diabetes medicine before eye surgery?
Usually, you will be advised not to take diabetes medicine before eye surgery to reduce the chances of lactic acidosis. The condition can be a medical emergency. It is best to tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking and follow his or her instructions if you need to stop any drug before surgery.
Question 5: I have diabetes, how do I prepare for eye surgery?
The best way to prepare for eye surgery is to follow the advice given to you by your eye doctor and general practitioner or endocrinologist. Remember, the longer your sugar levels are under control, the outcomes of the surgery will be better and the recovery period will go well.
Question 6: What to expect after the surgery?
After surgery, you will need to see your ophthalmologist frequently, so that he or she can monitor any effect that your diabetes may be having on the eyes.
Question 7: How long is the recovery for diabetics after surgery?
The recovery from eye surgery varies from one person to another. It is important that you follow post-operative instructions given to you by the doctor regarding eye drops and eye hygiene.
Looking for an eye hospital in Kolkata?
One of the best ways to lower the risk of diabetic eye diseases is to get your eyes checked once every year. Diabetic eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataract show no symptoms during their early stages. From diagnosis to eye surgery, you will find all eye care facilities at Disha Eye Hospitals, a leading eye hospital in Kolkata.