Fibromyalgia and LASIK

Fibromyalgia is a multimodal disease that produces pain and lethargy (among a variety of other symptoms) that may be caused by a number of undetermined factors.

The overwhelming characteristic of fibromyalgia is longstanding pain at defined tender points. Fibromyalgia patients are also afflicted with chronic fatigue, malaise, dizziness, numbness, tingling, a swollen feeling in tissues, and stiffness. Recently, researchers have also found that fibromyalgia sufferers are hypersensitive to everyday sensory stimulation, including sight, sound, and touch. As a result, they may experience difficulty processing everyday sights, which is something that your eye doctor can help ascertain with a comprehensive eye exam. 

The condition makes the body’s nerves more sensitive, which could cause some of the following eye health problems:

Dry eyes

A relatively common eye problem due to fibromyalgia is dry eyes. The mucous membranes in the nose, mouth, and eyes can dry up. Dry eyes can be especially uncomfortable for people who wear contact lenses. Using eye drops with vitamin A can help to keep your eyes moist and alleviate discomfort.

Blurred or double vision

Patients experiencing visual effects of fibromyalgia could have trouble focusing their vision. Some have trouble focusing while driving, reading, or during other daily activities. Additionally, their visual acuity can fluctuate—one day they may not have any trouble with their vision, and the next their vision may be so blurred that they struggle to read. In fact, some patients have such frequent changes in their vision that they are constantly updating their lens prescriptions. The best way to stay on top of your vision problems is to visit your optometrist whenever you notice a change; they will help you manage your symptoms and find the best treatment plan for you.

Sensitivity to light

Some fibromyalgia sufferers can be light sensitive, causing pain and making them squint in otherwise normal lighting conditions. For many, this sensitivity can cause difficulty both inside and outside—some wear sunglasses in both settings because the pain and discomfort are too much without them. You can also speak to your optometrist about getting special glasses for driving or looking at a computer screen.

Floaters and flashes

Floaters look like small spots or threads that pop up in your field of vision. People with fibromyalgia can be more prone to these, but generally shouldn’t be concerned unless they suddenly see a lot at the same time.

Similar to when you have a migraine, some people with fibromyalgia will see floaters and flashes in their line of vision. This can be alarming, especially when you know there is no light source nearby that’s causing it. It’s important to speak with your doctor about these symptoms.

Fibromyalgia remains a mysterious disease, but the research noted above suggests that it may have its origins in the processing centers of the brain and the sensory nerve fibers in blood vessels.

We are often asked by patients if they are a good candidate for LASIK if they have fibromyalgia. Dr. Lindahl believes that if you have this disease it is a contraindication for LASIK and disqualifies the patient as a candidate. "It would be unsafe, in my opinion, to do LASIK on a patient with fibromyalgia, especially if they are experiencing difficulty processing everyday sights." 

If you have fibromyalgia and are experiencing issues with your eyes. See your eye doctor or call us (585)232-2560 for an appointment.