As you get older, the chance that you will develop a cataract increases. Thankfully, cataracts can be easily treated via a simple surgical procedure. However, even though the treatment is relatively simple, this doesn't mean that you do not need to take precautions to care for your eyes during the recovery period. There are some things which you should avoid doing until your optometrist checks your eyes and says that they are fully healed. Below is a guide to activities you should avoid in the days and weeks after your cataract surgery.
Do not use digital screen for extended periods
Looking at a computer or TV screen for long periods can place a strain on your eyes. Although you may not be able to avoid looking at screens, you should try to keep your screen time to a minimum during your recovery period.
Do not lift heavy objects
As first, it may be difficult to make the connection between lifting heavy objects and the health of your eyes. When you lift a heavy object, the strain on your muscles increases the blood pressure inside your body. Because the blood vessels in the eye can be fragile after surgery, any heavy lifting could result in internal bleeding in the eye. You should avoid lifting anything heavy until your doctor says that you have fully recovered from the surgery.
Do not swim
While swimming is good for your health, it can be dangerous if you have recently had cataract surgery. The water in a swimming pool will contain bacteria which could enter into your eye tissue and cause an infection. In extreme cases, a bacterial infection in the eye could lead to you losing your vision. You should not swim until your doctor has given you the all clear and even then, you may wish to wear swimming goggles when entering the water to protect your eyes.
Do not drive
The hours after the surgery, you may find that your vision is blurred and that it is difficult to focus. This is an entirely normal phase which will pass as your eye begins to recover. Until your vision is clear again, you should avoid driving. Driving with blurred or unfocused vision massively increases the chance that you will be involved in a road traffic accident. If you are driving to the hospital to have your surgery, you should ask someone else to drive you home. Otherwise, you should leave your car at the hospital and get a taxi.
If you have any other questions, you should contact an optometrist today.
Share13 November 2017
Hello! My name is Leah and this is my blog which will explain everything you need to know about how your eyes work, how you can care for them and what you should do if you have pain or problems with your vision. When I had trouble seeing, I didn't know what to do. For a long time, I just put up with it. In the end, my mother told me I should go and see an optometrist, so I did. I had an eye exam and I was fitted with a pair of glasses which allow me to see perfectly.