Which group of individuals is more likely to experience corneal desensitivity?

Individuals with diabetes are indeed more likely to experience corneal desensitivity due to the effects of the disease on the nerves and blood supply to the cornea. Diabetic neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, can impair the function of sensory nerves, leading to reduced sensitivity in the corneal surface. This desensitization can put individuals at greater risk for corneal injuries, infections, and delayed healing due to decreased awareness of irritants and injuries to the eye.

In contrast, while individuals with allergies may experience symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling, these do not typically lead to corneal desensitivity. Astigmatism, a refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens, does not inherently affect sensory nerves in the cornea. People with normal vision generally do not experience corneal desensitivity, as they have healthy corneal nerves and function. Therefore, diabetes is a significant risk factor for corneal sensory changes, making this group more prone to experiencing corneal desensitivity.