Diabetic PRP eye laser

[walshdon]

I have been referred for laser for a leak in my eye, I have had focal laser a couple of times but this time it was PRP, I am concerned as the doctors didn't explain that I was having PRP and what it consisted of or the side effects until the second treatment. It was awful and painful, first sitting I sat all the way through but had to close my other eye as the green laser light was so bright and I have no idea where my other eye was looking. The second sitting I started asking questions why are we doing this and she then told me that it can effect your peripheral vision and also night time driving. I had to stop half way through second one it was that painful. Since I have a blur in my central vision and flickering around the edges 3 weeks on. I have been back and all they said is I need to complete the rest of the laser. I don't feel confident in what is being told to me and don't want my eyes making any worse.

 

[Dark Horse]

Laser is given to reduce the risk of vision loss. The ophthalmologists will only give it when they think the risks of not having it outweighs any risks of having it. Delays to laser treatment increase the risk of vision loss. Temporary blurring following laser is quite common. This website has good information about PRP:- http://www.diabeticretinopathy.org.uk/laserdiabetic_retinopathy.html As it says, anaesthetic can be given if the burns are very painful. Talk to your ophthalmologist, tell them your worries, ask them to explain the rationale for the procedure and ask them about anaesthesia.