Slowing down after Cataract Surgery
Having cataracts can make you feel as though you have to live life at a slower pace. The clouding of the natural lens causes some people to have to give up activities they always loved. So getting back to a normal pace is something you may want to do quickly. However, we encourage patients to give themselves a good 10 days to gradually move into that pace. This way, the risk of infection and injury are reduced.
The use of eye drops may be recommended after cataract removal as a step toward infection prevention. Eye drops may also minimize inflammation. This course of treatment may continue for up to 8 weeks post-surgery, but takes very little time out of your day to promote recovery. If, during the recovery period, you have questions or concerns, we are just a phone call away.
Tips for healing after cataract surgery include:
- Postpone driving for a few days.
- Stay in an upright position, keeping head above heart. This allows the eyes to heal without additional pressure placed on their internal structures. Intraocular pressure increases every time you bend over.
- Sneezing also increases intraocular pressure substantially. Avoid sneezing if at all possible in the hours after surgery.
- Normal activities may be resumed, but do NOT lift heavy objects or engage in strenuous activity for at least 7 days following cataract removal.
- Be mindful about moving around for the first few days after surgery to avoid bumping into things.
- Swimming pools and hot tubs contain bacteria. Avoid use in the first two weeks after cataract surgery.
- Protect your eyes with sunglasses or other protective lenses so debris and dust do not land on the ocular surface.
- Try not to rub your eyes.
Learn more about cataract removal from your Amarillo ophthalmologist Dr. Walter Murrell. Call (806) 351-1177.