Eye Pain After Laser Surgery: Causes and Concerns

Q: Eye Pain After Laser Surgery: Causes and Concerns

Hello： <br>1. <br>Eyelash in the Eye： The physician has indicated that an eyelash is trapped in the eye, which may cause a stinging sensation. <br>While this is a possible cause, the symptoms you describe, including bilateral stinging, a gritty sensation, white sticky discharge f

Eye stinging issue?

Hello, Doctor Gao.
I previously inquired about the stinging sensation in my right eye two weeks after undergoing retinal laser surgery.
I went for another check-up at the clinic, and the doctor informed me that three eyelashes were trapped in my eye, causing the pain.
However, the next day, I began to experience a strong stinging and aching sensation in both eyes, followed by the appearance of white, sticky discharge from the corners of my eyes, sometimes accompanied by eyelashes.
I would like to ask if it is possible for me to have lost more eyelashes and for them to have entered my eyes again in such a short time? Could this be due to stress causing hair loss? Additionally, I have dry eye syndrome, but I have never experienced such severe stinging before.
After the laser treatment, I felt a lot of pressure and was afraid to move my eyes at all, even though the doctor assured me that my tear was small and stable after the laser.
I am still in a state of high tension; just touching the eye area makes me more anxious, and I constantly feel the need to check.
Is it really sufficient to have check-ups every three months?

Mr. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/11

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello:
1.
Eyelash in the Eye: The physician has indicated that an eyelash is trapped in the eye, which may cause a stinging sensation.
While this is a possible cause, the symptoms you describe, including bilateral stinging, a gritty sensation, white sticky discharge from the corners of the eyes, and the presence of eyelashes, may require further evaluation.
2.
Eyelash Loss: The sudden loss of eyelashes can be influenced by various factors, including physiological factors, environmental factors, or the stress you mentioned.
However, further assessment is needed to determine if there are other underlying eye health issues.
3.
Dry Eye Syndrome: You mentioned having dry eye syndrome, which could be one of the reasons for the stinging sensation.
However, if the symptoms worsen, further examination may be necessary.
4.
Psychological Stress: You described a heightened state of anxiety following laser surgery, which may affect your eye comfort.
Psychological stress can exacerbate feelings of discomfort in the eyes, and this should be noted and managed.
As for the frequency of examinations, it is advisable to follow the recommendations of your attending physician.

Reply Date: 2023/11/11

More Info

Understanding eye pain after laser surgery, particularly following procedures like retinal laser surgery, can be complex and multifaceted. The symptoms you are experiencing, including sharp pain, dryness, and the presence of discharge, can stem from various causes, and it's essential to consider each aspect carefully.

Firstly, the presence of eyelashes in the eye can indeed cause significant discomfort. If your doctor has identified that there are eyelashes trapped in your eye, this could explain the acute pain you are feeling. Eyelashes can irritate the cornea and conjunctiva, leading to inflammation and discomfort. It is possible for eyelashes to fall out and re-enter the eye, especially if you have been rubbing your eyes or if there is a lot of movement in the area. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate this situation, leading to increased sensitivity and a heightened awareness of discomfort.
Your mention of dry eye syndrome is also crucial. Dry eyes can lead to a sensation of grittiness or pain, and if you are experiencing increased dryness post-surgery, this could be contributing to your symptoms. The stress you are feeling after the surgery may also lead to less frequent blinking, which can exacerbate dryness. It is essential to manage dry eye symptoms effectively, which may include the use of artificial tears, punctal plugs, or other treatments as recommended by your eye care provider.

The psychological aspect of your recovery cannot be overlooked. Anxiety and stress can lead to a cycle of discomfort, where the fear of pain leads to increased tension and, consequently, more pain. It’s important to address these feelings, possibly with the help of a mental health professional who specializes in dealing with patients recovering from medical procedures. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, or cognitive behavioral therapy can be beneficial.

Regarding your follow-up appointments, the frequency of checks should be determined by your eye care provider based on your specific situation. If you are experiencing significant discomfort or if your symptoms are worsening, it may be prudent to seek more frequent evaluations. Your doctor can assess whether your healing is progressing as expected or if there are underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, the pain you are experiencing after laser surgery could be due to a combination of trapped eyelashes, dry eye syndrome, and psychological stress. It is essential to address each of these factors comprehensively. Regular communication with your eye care provider is crucial, and do not hesitate to seek additional support if your symptoms persist or worsen. Remember, your comfort and peace of mind are just as important as the physical healing process.

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