Can I Have Laser Eye Surgery When I Have Conjunctivitis?
If you have been planning on having Laser Eye Surgery but have recently found that you have conjunctivitis, you may be wondering if you can still go ahead with your treatment. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the causes and treatments for conjunctivitis to how this common ailment can affect your suitability for Laser Eye Surgery.
What is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis, also known as red or pink eye, is a common eye condition that can be caused by infection or allergies. Bacterial and viral infections can cause conjunctivitis while allergies such as hay fever, are also commonly associated with the condition.
Symptoms include inflammation of the inner surface of the eyelids and the outermost layer of the eye. It can cause eyes to become red and itchy and they may also water, produce pus, and burn or feel gritty.
How do you treat conjunctivitis?
You may be prescribed antibiotics if your conjunctivitis is caused by a bacterial infection; however, this will not help with other types of conjunctivitis. Antihistamines may help to improve symptoms associated with allergic conjunctivitis and most cases tend to improve within a matter of weeks without treatments.
Nonetheless, it is usually necessary to take precautions to prevent it from spreading to other people. This can include:
- Washing your hands regularly;
- Washing your pillowcases and face cloths;
- Covering your mouth and nose when sneezing/coughing and throwing away used tissues;
- Do not share towels and pillows;
- Avoid rubbing your eyes.
In some cases, you may need to stay away from home or school; however, this is only advised if you are feeling very unwell.
Conjunctivitis and Contact Lenses
If you develop conjunctivitis and usually wear contact lenses, you should stop wearing them until after your symptoms have completely cleared up. Continuing to wear contact lenses can prolong your infection.
Furthermore, if you wear contact lenses and have conjunctivitis symptoms in addition to spots on your eyelids, you may be allergic to the lenses. You should cease wearing them right away.
Conjunctivitis and Laser Eye Surgery
If you have an eye infection like conjunctivitis, which is active, you will be unsuitable for Laser Eye Surgery – at least temporarily. However, this usually means you will be able to go ahead with treatment as soon as your symptoms have fully cleared. If you have already booked your procedure, this will need to be postponed until your eyes are fully recovered.
At the London Vision Clinic, your eyes will be checked in great detail during your consultation appointment. This is a comprehensive examination that will assess the health of your eyes and your overall health to ensure your suitability for treatment. This allows us to ensure the best outcomes and the lowest risk of complications.
If you have active conjunctivitis – don’t worry! The chances are you will be suitable for Laser Eye Surgery as soon as the condition clears up. To learn more about Laser Eye Surgery suitability, get in touch with one of our friendly clinic coordinators or Book a Consultation today.