Cataract is the most prevalent vision problem worldwide. It is the leading cause of reversible blindness among the ageing population. However, it can be treated and managed to restore vision. Eye urgent care is a critical factor in recovering a patient sight.
Table of Contents
Effects of cataracts on the patient
A patient who realizes a challenge in their vision should book an eye care clinic for further investigations. Untreated cataracts can cause abnormal changes in the brain and trigger the onset of other diseases. Poor vision also affects a patient’s daily activities and can further cause accidents.
Cataract surgery
Surgery can reverse a patient’s vision. You can restore a patient’s ability to read, walk and increase the life expectancy if you visit a doctor as soon as the problem begins. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes. Eye surgery takes a few hours, and the patient is expected to recover soon after the procedure. The patient should receive proper care during recovery to enhance recovery and reduce complications.
Eye care after cataract surgery
It is critical for the patient to rest until full recovery. The good news is that a patient can resume normal life recovery. Generally:
- The patient can do all light activities and chores around the home. Heavy workouts can come after two weeks.
- Avoid swimming and other activities directly affecting the eyes for at least three weeks.
- The patient should visit the doctor if they feel uncomfortable in the affected eye. You should also talk to the doctor if you develop any complications.
Resting after surgery
Rest is critical in after cataract surgery because it hastens recovery. Patients recover at a different pace depending on their health and the status of their immune system. Many patients feel better 24 hours after the surgery and can walk, read and watch the TV after a day of sufficient rest. Full recovery is expected four weeks after the surgery. Visit the doctor to get a clean bill of health and reassure your healing.
Sleeping after cataract surgery
As you leave the surgery room, the doctor will apply a protective guard around the eye, which should be worn during sleep. The shield prevents you from rubbing the eye and can cause injury to the healing eye. The protective shield does not affect your sleep pattern in any way.
Find a comfortable position for your sleep to avoid unnecessary pressure on the healing eye. If you have problems sleeping or experience discomfort, talk to your doctor.
Washing your face after cataract surgery
The surgery should not prevent you from maintaining yourself clean. The patient only needs to prevent water from getting into the healing eye. Wipe the face and around the bandage and avoid splashing water on the face. The surgery incision should heal in a few days, and you can resume cleaning after yourself. Close your eyes and avoid rubbing the eye as you clean the face.
Diet after cataract surgery
The patient should eat a balanced diet before, during and after the surgery. Increase foods rich in vitamins and proteins. Avoid sugar refined foods and carbohydrates because they spike sugar levels.
Cataract surgery takes a few days to heal. A patient resumes normal life and heals completely after a month. In case of any complications, talk to your doctor if you experience any discomfort.