Eye health is extremely important. That is why following, cataract surgery, you need to take the time to familiarize yourself with the recovery process. While cataract surgery is very common and only takes 10 minutes to perform, it is still important to take good care of yourself following surgery. This gives your eyes the time they need to properly heal.
Here are the top five ways to take care of your eyes following cataract surgery.
Limit Activity That is Demanding
Following cataract surgery, you should make sure to avoid any activities or exercises that are strenuous. This means that you should avoid lifting heavy objects for a few weeks to decrease your chances of raising your eye pressure. There are certain other positions you should avoid such as bending over or any other position that puts your head below your waist because they can also raise the pressure in your eye.
Protect Yourself From Irritants or Injuries
It is common to feel like something is in your eye such as an eyelash following surgery. For at least a week following your cataract surgery, your eyes can be extremely sensitive. Consider using wraparound glasses to help protect your eyes from being exposed to dirt, pollen, and dust. These glasses can also protect you from light. Your optometrist will provide you with an eye shield that you can wear while you are asleep during your recovery period. This shield will also prevent you from rubbing and touching your eyes.
Avoid Swimming & Use Shower Carefully
Did you know that exposure to water can put your eyes at risk of irritation or infection following immediate cataract surgery? This risk is only relevant until your eyes have completely healed from surgery. You should also avoid showering at least one day after your surgery and try to prevent the water from hitting your eyes directly. You should also consult with your optometrist on when he or she thinks it is safe for you to begin swimming or using a hot tub again. In the majority of cases, it will take several weeks.
Do Not Drive
Talk to your doctor about when you can resume driving safely following surgery. This will normally depend on how well you are recovering. You may notice that sunglasses can help decrease the amount of light entering your eyes from bright headlights following your operation. You may also receive the same benefits from specially designed driving glasses.
Follow Your Doctor's Instructions
Following surgery, you also want to make sure that you discuss any precautions you need to take with your eye doctor. You need to also make sure you are aware of when you can resume your normal daily activities.
Symptoms to WATCH FOR
If you experience any of the following symptoms after your surgery, you should contact your eye doctor right away:
- Eye pain
- Loss of vision
- Floaters or flashes in your vision
- Nausea, vomiting, or uncontrolled coughing
If you have been prescribed medicated eye drops or pain relievers, be sure to follow the dosage instructions exactly as listed. Your eye doctor will inform you of the best directions to follow for a successful recovery. If you would like to schedule an appointment for an eye exam, give our office a call today.