5 Tips for Recovering From Cataract Surgery

Health & Medical Blog

Cataract surgery is a routine procedure that rarely has serious side effects. However, as with all surgery, there is a small risk of developing an infection or other complications during recovery. These top tips can help you to reduce your risk and set you well on the way to a speedy recovery.

1. Wait At Least a Day to Drive 

Driving home after cataract surgery is a big mistake. You will be drowsy from the sedation and swelling in the eye might cloud your vision. Arrange for someone to pick you up from the clinic or hospital so you can be sure you will get home safely.

Many people are able to drive the day after cataract surgery. However, it sometimes takes longer for vision to recover enough to meet the legally required standard for driving. Do not drive unless you are sure that your vision is good enough or you have been given the all-clear by your cataract doctor.

2. Don't Rub Your Eyes

One of the worst things you can do after cataract surgery is rub your eyes. They are likely to be swollen and tender, which will get worse if you rub them. Rubbing your eyes also increases the risk of infection.

3. Don't Swim Until After Your Follow-Up

Swimming pools and hot tubs sometimes contain bacteria that can cause an eye infection. While your eye is recovering from surgery, it is particularly vulnerable to these pathogens. Therefore, you should avoid swimming until your doctor tells you it is safe.

4. Avoid Bending and Lifting

Recovering from cataract treatment is not the time to catch up on housework. Bending over and lifting heavy objects can put a strain on the eye. Put your feet up and enjoy a rest while your eyes recover. Most people are able to watch TV on the day of surgery, but if your vision is blurred, try using podcasts or radio shows to entertain yourself.

5. Try Not to Sneeze

Sneezing isn't always voluntary, but it is best to avoid it if you can. During a violent sneeze, the muscles in your face contract and put a lot of pressure on your eye, which can hurt if you have just had surgery. If there are foods or drinks that usually make you sneeze, leave them off the menu for now. If you feel a sneeze coming on, pinch your nose to keep it under control.

Share

18 July 2019

How Seeing a Doctor Could Save Your Life

Hello there! Welcome to my blog. I would like to start by telling you a story about something that happened to me many years ago. I was working in Sydney at the time as an investment banker. The hours were long and I would party every weekend to de-stress. I put on a lot of weight and began to have problems sleeping. I didn't pay much attention to the problems, as I thought I was invincible. However, one day I collapsed at work. At the hospital the doctors saved my life. Since then, I have become very interested in health and medical matters.