What You Need To Know About Cataract Surgery Recovery
Posted on: 13 December 2016
The National Eye Institute (NEI) reports that more than half of the people living in the United States suffer from cataracts by the time they reach 80 years of age. It is important that this common eye condition is monitored and eventually treated in order to protect your vision. If your ophthalmologist schedules cataract surgery for one or both of your eyes, there are a few things you'll need to know about the recovery process.
Blurry Vision
There are several symptoms you can expect to encounter once the surgery has been completed. Blurry vision is the most common, yet it won't last more than a few days. It is also possible that your eye will feel a bit itchy. Although the after effects are not painful, you may experience slight discomfort in the eye that was operated on. In order to protect your eyes during this period, your doctor may provide you with an eye shield or instruct you to wear a pair of glasses.
Prescription Medications
There are two main medications that doctors prescribe for use immediately following cataract surgery. The first is an anti-inflammatory drug that works to reduce the internal inflammation in the eye so that it can heal properly and so that you'll have less discomfort. The second is an antibiotic, which is used as a preventative measure to keep your eye from developing an infection. Both medications come in the form of drops that will need to be administered a few times per day.
Restrictions
A few restrictions should be followed after having cataract surgery. Patients will need to arrange for a friend or family member drive them home and to run any errands on surgery day. On day two, you can assess your vision to determine if it is safe enough to drive. The first week after surgery, avoid using a hot tub or swimming in any body of water. It is also important not to lift anything heavy for a couple of weeks, or until your doctor gives the all clear.
Follow-Up Appointments
Your ophthalmologist will provide you with a follow-up schedule that is designed to ensure your eye is healing correctly and that your vision is back to normal. Most doctors will require you to return to the office two days after the surgery and then a week after that. A final check is usually performed one month later, although patients are encouraged to call at any time if they have a symptom they concerns them, such as a sensitivity to light.
To learn more about what to expect, contact a company like California Eye Specialists Medical Group Inc.
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