Laser Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy
argon laser
What is Argon Laser Treatment?
The aim of the laser treatment is to stabilise the changes caused by your diabetes. Leakage in the central area may also be treated with intravitreal injections in some cases.
What should I bring with me?
Any eye drops as well as your glasses.
How long can I expect to stay in the centre?
We aim for your visit to be no more than 2-3 hours.
What happens before the laser treatment is done?
Nursing staff will put an eye drop in your eye to enlarge the pupil in one or both eyes. It may blur your near vision. You are advised not to drive following this treatment or go home unaccompanied. Once you have agreed on the treatment, you will be asked to sign a consent form giving your permission to the laser treatment. You may be invited to attend a laser treatment course. You may eat or drink as normal and take your insulin dose or diabetic medication.
What happens during laser treatment?
It is similar to being examined in the outpatients’ clinic. You will sit at the laser machine with your chin resting down on rest and your forehead pressed forward against a band. A numbing drop is put into your eye which may sting slightly, and a special contact lens is placed onto the eye to be treated. The contact lens is used to stabilize the eye and deliver the laser beam. The laser involves focusing an intense beam onto your retina in small spots. You will hear some clicks and notice some flashing during the laser treatment.
How long does the treatment take?
The procedure usually takes 10-20 minutes depending on the type of laser treatment given.
Does this treatment hurt?
Sometimes there can be some discomfort when certain areas of the retina are treated. If you have had a lot of therapy, it is possible that your eyes may ache. Please take a painkiller such as paracetamol if you experience discomfort/ache/pain.
Are there any side effects?
Depending on the type of laser treatment given, you may experience the following symptoms:
- A temporary decrease in your vision
- Tiny dark spots in your vision (laser burns)
- Constriction of peripheral vision
- Reduced night vision
- Pain during laser
- Corneal abrasion
What should I expect following laser treatment?
Your eyesight will normally return to its previous level over the next few hours. Rarely your vision can take longer to go back to normal. Please note: This type of treatment is done to prevent loss of vision; however, it will not improve vision. Laser treatment may permanently affect the eligibility to drive.
How long can I expect to stay in the centre?
We aim for your visit to be no more than 2-3 hours.
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